Strictly's Craig Revel Horwood says show is a 'popularity contest' in swipe at Pete Wicks

Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has shared his honest thoughts on Pete Wicks still being in the competition following last weekend's result.

The reality star was seen looking shocked after learning he had made it through to the semi-final, despite receiving the lowest score of the night for his Waltz routine.

Instead, Montell Douglas and Tasha Ghouri battled it out in the dreaded dance-off, which resulted in the Gladiators star leaving the show.

Addressing the result, Craig, 59, insisted it is Pete's popularity that is keeping him in the show, as he isn't an "exceptional dancer".

Writing in his column with Best Magazine, he said: "Pete keeps getting through! Strictly is a dancing contest, but also a popularity one.

"If you are loved by the nation, you will get through. People voting is the whole point of the show, us judges are there to just keep the quality and the standard of dance there in people's minds."

Craig went on to say that he believes Pete is "doing really well", he "isn't the exceptional dancer", but acknowledges that the result is all down to the audience.

The former TOWIE star will now fight for a place in the final against; Tasha, Sarah Hadland, JB Gill and Chris McCausland.

Taking to Instagram after learning his fate, Pete told his followers he is "lost for words".

Alongside a snap of his Waltz routine with Jowita Przystał, he wrote: "I am so overwhelmed and blessed to have had your support over the past three months.

"I never expected it and I have never taken it for granted. The belief you guys have had in me has been incredible and at times I’m not sure I’ve deserved it."

He added: "I’ve said it before but no amount of words will ever be able to repay what you have given me. People talk about the 'journey' and let me tell you, this isn’t my journey at all."

Paying tribute to his professional dance partner, he added: "It’s our journey. Jowita, you and I have all been on this wild ride and I wouldn’t have it any other way!"

Pete concluded by telling fans he had "no idea" how he was going to make it through to the final, but promised he will give it his all.

Latest odds from William Hill suggest that Chris is the favourite to lift the Glitterball trophy, followed by Sarah.

Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday at 6.30pm on BBC One.