Tess Daly has predicted that the romance between Strictly Come Dancing stars Ali Bastian and Brian Fortuna could end in marriage.

The BBC show host told a tabloid newspaper that she felt like former Blind Date host Cilla Black while working with the couple on the dance contest.

Daly predicted that the romance between the couple, who were voted off the show on Saturday night, could end with wedding bells.

Tess told the Daily Mirror: "Ali might be a loser in the semi-final but she's definitely a winner in love.

"She emotionally kissed her American boy on the lips on Saturday's show - not once but three times and yes, I was counting."

She added: "I've waited seven series for a love story like this and I'm overjoyed, I feel like Cilla. Now, where's my hat?"

Meanwhile, Bastian has spoken out to insist that she can be "sexy" in private.

The actress recently came under fire for her "passionless" performances on the dance floor from former Strictly judge Arlene Phillips.

The choreographer said that Bastian showed all "the passion of pomegranate" during her routines with Fortuna on the show.

Bastian told The Sun: "Sexy is something I save for at home. I save it for in private.

"It's not easy being sexy with millions of people watching you. Brian helped me. Brian has boosted my confidence so much. He makes me feel sexy and that's the main thing."