Helen Skelton shares peek at 'Strictly' prep and says she's already made 'lifetime' of memories

Helen Skelton has said she's made enough Strictly Come Dancing memories to last a lifetime before the competition has even started.

The Countryfile and former Blue Peter presenter is among the crop of contestants for the new series of the BBC ballroom contest, and is the bookies' favourite to be the series champion.

Skelton showed fans she is already having a blast as she posted a series of behind the scenes snaps on Instagram ahead of the competition.

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The montage of images showed Skelton on the set of the show, messing around backstage with her fellow contestants and enjoying a slice of pizza.

"Totally understand why people rave about being part of this show in the way they do… Smiles and laughter are infectious," she wrote.

"Very grateful to be part of the class of '22' still in awe this is technically work.

"For however long it lasts I have already made memories to last a lifetime."

The TV star – who split from husband Richie Myler in April just months after they had their third child – added a string of hashtags to her post, including "#grateful".

Skelton will be competing against the likes of Bros star Matt Goss, singer Fleur East and actor Kym Marsh when Strictly gets under way on 17 September.

Other contestants include actor Will Mellor and Loose Women's Kaye Adams.

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Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Anton Du Beke will return, but former judge Bruno Tonioli will not be back as he continues to focus on his US commitments with Dancing With The Stars.

Watch: Who is Strictly's Helen Skelton?