Strictly star Helen Skelton admits to wanting Dancing on Ice stint

Strictly Come Dancing contestant, Helen Skelton has admitted that if she had the choice she would rather be a contestant on ITV’s rival, Dancing on Ice.

The former Blue Peter presenter, 39, decided to sign up to the BBC dancing show at the very last minute, so was announced, last month, as the last contestant in the line-up.

Skelton, who lives in Yorkshire, spoke to The Sun before her Strictly place was announced, she said: “I like to do anything that challenges me.”

She also expressed an interest in taking part in ITV’s I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, before admitting that Dancing on Ice would be her ideal choice.

The mother of three, admitted: “I’d love Dancing On Ice. Where else can you learn to be an ice dancer?”

She also explained: “I don’t have a career plan and never have. I try not to worry about the future. I just say yes to things that put food on my table and a smile on my face.”

Helen began her television presenting career in 2008 when she replaced Zöe Salmon, on BBC children’s entertainment show, Blue Peter.

She then moved on to co-presenting segments on BBC’s Countryfile, where she focused on reporting about rural, agricultural, and environmental issues in the UK.

Throughout her career she has also been a presenter for BBC Sport, and appeared on the European Swimming Championships, the Olympics, and London Marathon coverage.

As well as most recently, as a presenter alongside Adam Hills on Channel 4’s Super League Rugby coverage.

After announcing her new Strictly place last month, Helen said: “I only said yes the other day, I thought it would be madness not to do it.

The 39-year-old presenter continued: “I’m really excited to get stuck into a fun adventure. My family and friends have always loved the show and can’t wait for me to get started.”

Helen, who appeared on a Christmas special version of Strictly Come Dancing 10 years ago,  spoke on a BBC Radio 5 show following the announcement, last month.

She went on to criticise her dancing skills, but also admitted that she’s excited to start learning.

She told the BBC Radio 5 listeners: “I can’t decide if it’s the best or worst thing I’ve agreed to and it hasn’t started yet!”

The news of her new strictly role, came just months after it was announced that she had split from her husband, Leeds Rhinos rugby player Richie Myler, 32.

Helen is set to hit the dance floor this weekend, alongside a new Strictly line-up, which includes, singer Fleur East, comedian Ellie Taylor, football legend Tony Adams and Paralympian swimmer Ellie Simmonds.