Strictly Joe gets council backing

This weekend, undefeated world boxing champion Joe Calzaghe will face his toughest challenge to date as he takes to the dancefloor to compete in this year's 'Strictly Come Dancing' competition.

Caerphilly county borough council is joining forces with the whole community to support the Newbridge boxer as he waltzes, tangos and foxtrots his way through the show alongside Russian dancing partner Kristina Rhianoff.

"Joe is a role model for people of all ages thanks to his outstanding sporting achievements as well as his charity work and anti-bullying campaigning. He is a true ambassador for the Caerphilly county borough," said CCBC cabinet member, Cllr Lyn Ackerman. "We will be backing Joe all the way and if he can dance as well as he can fight, I'm sure he will go on to achieve the same success on the dancefloor as he has in the boxing ring."

Joe has recently been recognised by the council at two prestigious events. Earlier this year he became the first ever person to receive the 'Freedom of the Borough' from the authority and last week he opened the new Calzaghe Bridge in his hometown of Newbridge alongside his trainer father Enzo.

"Dancing, as well as boxing, is a great way for people to keep fit so I hope everyone will follow Joe's lead and take steps to get active and adopt a healthy lifestyle," added Lyn.

Strictly Come Dancing starts on Friday 18th September and will be shown on BBC One.