Chris McCausland announced as first Strictly contestant

Comedian Chris McCausland is the first celebrity contestant confirmed for the next series of Strictly Come Dancing.

"I don't dance, I haven't danced, I can't dance, I can't see the dancing I will have to do. What can possibly go wrong?," joked the Liverpudlian, who lost his sight in his 20s.

Strictly is due to return on BBC One this autumn.

The show has been at the centre of controversy in recent weeks, as various celebrities made claims about their experiences on the show.

McClausland is a regular face on flagship comedy shows such as Have I Got News for You and QI.

Speaking to ITV's This Morning on Monday, he said his participation in Strictly was the "worst kept secret" in showbusiness following weeks of newspaper reports.

The remaining celebrity contestants joining the new series will be announced in due course.