BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Dianne Buswell and Chris McCausland thanked for 'inspiring' reason

Strictly Come Dancing's Dianne Buswell and Chris McCausland received an outpouring of support as they reflected on their Saturday performance. As the show's first blind contestant, Chris has become an early favourite with his inspiring routines.

However, he faced a setback during Halloween Week, finishing joint bottom of the leaderboard after his Samba. The 47 year old was worried he might have to participate in the dreaded dance-off but was relieved to discover he had been voted through.

In their daily diary entries, Chris and Dianne thanked fans for their support. Dianne mentioned: "Thank you so much because we were nervous weren't we."

She revealed that Chris' mind went blank just before they opened the show, saying: "He goes 'I can't remember the beginning of the dance'. I said 'yes, you do'. We found a little space because we were literally seconds from going on."

Chris explained that opening the show made Saturday's performance particularly challenging, stating: "I didn't get to do the dance before coming on. I had to be in a queue and when I'm in a queue, I think. I overthink to the point where I don't even remember what the dance was. I had to panic. My mind went blank.", reports the Liverpool Echo.

He expressed his concerns about getting the steps wrong, saying: "I did worry that I'll get the steps wrong and I can't see you. Imagine I got the steps wrong and I was a bit behind you. That would be terrible wouldn't it. It would be awful. And that's what panics me. And I overcompensated with enthusiasm and energy."

"And ultimately I got penalised for trying to have too much fun."

However, Dianne reassured Chris that he still delivered a strong performance, highlighting the significant obstacles he overcomes each week to take to the dance floor.

As they prepare for Icons Week, Dianne vowed to adopt a new approach, promising Chris: "We're not going to put pressure on ourselves."

Fans praised the duo in the comments, with many stating that Chris still has their vote to win the Glitterball. Ally commented: "Oh my gosh I didn't even think about the fact Chris can't just look at you if he goes wrong... maybe that's why he's always so great, he's had to learn it so well! " Rae added: "Love how @diannebuswell explains what limitations they face! Makes it even more incredible. Keep breaking down barriers guys " Lotte said: "What Chris said about his worry that if he goes wrong, how he will be out of tune with Di and how that will look strange. This is why this partnership is just so inspiring, because it is all about trust."

"He was overthinking and still was able to have fun on that dance floor and didn't do anything out of step with Di. Just amazzzzing! You never really know how difficult something is until you ask and someone takes the time to explain! Thank you for that! ".