Emmerdale star Lisa Riley cheers from Strictly Come Dancing audience

Strictly Come Dancing enthusiasts were thrilled to spot Emmerdale legend Lisa Riley in the crowd during Saturday's live show. The beloved Mandy Dingle actor was seen enjoying the event alongside her other half.

A viewer excitedly commented online: "Lisa Riley is in the #Strictly audience."

Reacting with enthusiasm, another added: "Yes it is, I love her."

During last week's confrontation, Paul Merson found himself departing the dance floor after facing off with JB Gill in a nail-biting dance-off.

Discussing his Strictly journey, Paul opened up to Tess Daly saying: "It's been really good. For anybody I talk to, I would say you've got to go on this show. It's amazing - everybody. There's a Tottenham fan over there called Lincoln, and he's nice! ", reports the Mirror.

Paul continued with heartfelt sentiment: "It's been amazing, honestly, amazing. I loved every minute of it, I've had a great teacher. She's been amazing, absolutely amazing, and I couldn't wish for a better coach."

With a touch of pride, he exclaimed: "I've loved every minute of it. I can dance now. I won because I can dance. I couldn't dance before, but I can half dance now. It's a bonus, absolute bonus."

Yet the tension mounts as another star faces elimination this Sunday evening, with the bookies' eyes set on Punam Krishnan as the likely next exit.