Medway's James Jordan has waltzed off Strictly Come Dancing - without the glitterball trophy.

The Gillingham-born dancer and partner Pamela Stephenson, comedian Billy Connolly's psychologist wife, were booted off Saturday night's final.

The pair won unanimous applause from the judges and drew massive cheers from the audience for their performance of I've Had The Time Of My Life.

But they received the fewest public votes, meaning they left the competition - won by ex-EastEnder Kara Tointon, who beat Countryfile host Matt Baker in a dance-off.

It was the first time James, who went to St John Fisher Catholic School, has made it to the final in his five years on the show.

The 32-year-old told the Medway Messenger: "It's been unbelievable this year. To be honest, I thought I was going to be one of the professionals that never managed to quite get to the final."

Pamela and James rehearsed 12 hours a day to perfect their routines.

James said: "I was fortunate enough that Pamela shocked the nation in how good she was and, taking into consideration that she is 61-years-old, I think she's done an absolutely phenomenal job.

"I am exhausted and I am half her age. She's given it her best shot and that's all I can ask from her.

"She's an inspiration to me and I am sure too so many of the older generation out there. It proves you can dance at any age."

Graciously accepting defeat, Pamela told James on the show: "You have been just incredible. You have made it the most joyful experience I have had for a really long time.

"Your patience, your dedication, your talent has been outstanding. Thank you very much."