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Tess Daly has shared an emotional tribute after she signed off from Strictly Come Dancing for the last time during Saturday’s finale.
The presenter, 56, who has been at the helm of the ballroom for a whopping 21 years, left the BBC show alongside co-star Claudia Winkleman.
Fighting back tears, they emotionally said farewell to fans as ex-footballer Karen Carney lifted the glitterball trophy following her win with pro partner Carlos Gu.
Taking to social media after the cameras stopped rolling, Tess paid tribute to the Strictly viewers, thanking them for ‘for the memories of a lifetime’.
Alongside behind-the-scenes footage of her with Claudia during the show, she penned: ‘So that’s a wrap. What an incredible Final – fitting for what, for me, has been an absolutely brilliant series.
‘Strictly is a show that is made with love, where joy is the currency and the only agenda. That love is down to every single member of the brilliant team that makes it, because to none of them is it just a job. It is a gift, and it is truly treasured. I will be forever grateful for the unforgettable years I have spent sharing this magical show with you.
‘I’ll miss the Strictly viewers, because they are the very best, the most loyal and supportive, and as passionate about the show as I have always been. It has been the most wonderful privilege to have shared it with you all for so many years.
‘Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the memories of a lifetime.’
Tess was flooded with comments from celebrity pals as Rylan Clark said: ‘Love you both so much. Irreplaceable.’
Zoe Ball posted: ‘Bravo Tess. you’re an absolute Goddess.’
Claudia also took to her Instagram stories to share a selection of Strictly-themed cakes that had been delivered to her.
She also posed with her team backstage in her dressing room, before sharing a picture with the Strictly producers.
During the finale, Tess and Claudia were surprised with a tribute from her Majesty The Queen leaving them stunned.
Craig Revel Horwood read out the special message, which said: ‘Tess and Claudia, as you prepare to take your final twirl, I just want to say thank you on behalf of the millions who watch you each week.
What lasting impact do you think Tess and Claudia’s partnership has had
Go to comments ‘I have often thought that Strictly is not so much a show about dancing as about friendships, the bonds forged, the struggles overcome, and the joy shared in undertaking a joint endeavour.
‘If that is true, then perhaps yours has been the greatest strictly partnership of all. The warmth, compassion, and sheer happiness you have radiated with and from each other has been at the heart of the show’s success.
‘I think I speak for everyone when I say you have been utterly fabulous. I wish you both every success in wherever life’s journey takes you next, but as one who has appreciated its lifelong benefits, do promise us one thing, keep dancing.
‘With the warmest gratitude and admiration, Her Royal Highness, Queen Camilla.’
Tess and Claudia were overwhelmed by the tribute as they struggled to contain their emotion after the heartfelt letter.
Thanking fans, a visibly emotional Tess said: ‘I can’t speak now. What an honour.
‘Thank you so much for your lovely words, from the bottom of the hearts it means so much to us.’
Claudia replied: ‘That is amazing, what a wonderful surprise. Thank you so much.
‘We have loved being part of such a wonderful show. It has been a privilege to be a part of your weekends.’
Tess has fronted the Strictly for a mammoth 21 years and 216 days, and was awarded a Guinness World Record for the longest-serving host of the same dance competition earlier this week.
The host as been part of the series since it’s very first episode back in 2004 where she presented alongside the late Bruce Forsyth.
Sir Bruce – who died in 2017 – starred alongside her until his retirement in 2013, when Claudia then took over.
