Strictly: John out after samba showdown

John Barnes has become the latest celebrity to leave Strictly Come Dancing, after his samba failed to strike a chord with either judges or public. The former footballer and dance partner Nicole Cutler once again found themselves in the bottom two, this time alongside Kelly Brook and Brendan Cole. After both couples - both of whom performed sambas on this week's show - had reprised their routines, the judges unanimously voted to save Kelly and Brendan. "I believe these people have a strong chance of winning this competition," Arlene Phillips said of her decision. "This is getting harder every week," Bruno Tonioli added, "but I have to go for the better dancer and the one who will provide more in the future, and I believe Kelly is that dancer." John said afterwards he had had a "fantastic time. It's all thanks to Nicole because she's been so patient with me," he said of his partner. Nicole, meanwhile, was full of praise for John. "He's been absolutely amazing to work with - such a gentleman and so humble," she said of him. "What a lovely man." The six remaining couples will each perform two routines - one ballroom and one Latin - on next Saturday's show.