Saffron Barker on doing Strictly Come Dancing 2019

What the reaction been like since you signed up for strictly?

The reaction has been crazy. It’s been even bigger than I expected and the support has been incredible. My nan has been calling me every single day – she’s cried a lot and told me she’s very proud. She keeps telling me to sing the song ‘I Have Confidence’ from the Sound of Music to boost my confidence. When she was younger she wanted to be a dancer but her family only had enough money to send one of her sisters to dance classes, so she has told me I’m living her dream, which is really special.

What kind of partner are you looking for?

I want someone who is determined and strict. I think honesty is the best policy and I’m always going to stick by that.  Don’t tell me I’m dancing well if I’m not, I’d rather just know. But kindness and patience is always appreciated.

What are you looking forward to most?

I’m looking forward to learning how to dance and trying on the dresses! It’s an incredible thought that I could learn such an amazing skill while doing a TV show. It will be a challenge and I’m nervous about the live shows. Strictly will be a world away from the YouTube life I am used to!

Have you had any previous dance experience before?

When I was much younger, around eight years old, I used to dance. But it definitely wasn’t ballroom or Latin! More modern and jazz, just kids lessons really, so I’m 100% ready to learn how to do it properly.

Have you been given any helpful advice?

Joe Sugg told me to just enjoy the moment. But it’ll be my mum who I look to for advice. I’m so close  to her. There’s no one I trust more than my mum; I can always count on her.

How far do you hope to make it?

Of course I would absolutely love to make it to the final, but I think I am just going to take each week as it comes and work really hard throughout the process.

How do you feel about being Strictlyfied?

I cannot wait! The dresses, the tan, the glitz, the glam … It’s a dream.

Do you have a lot of people who will come and watch?

My family will definitely come and watch and my friends too. I was speaking to James from The Vamps and he would like to come along too. There will be lots of familiar faces in the audience, which will be great.

What was your code name for Strictly, when you were discussing it with your mum before the news broke?

My mum and I referred to it as ‘The Dream’ when we were out in public before everyone else knew as it really was a dream. I have always wanted to do the show, I can’t believe it’s actually happening.