express gazette logo
The Express Gazette
Monday, January 12, 2026

Vicky Pattison leans on Strictly veterans for tips ahead of first live show as Wicks-Przystał romance surfaces

Reality star credits a circle of former contestants for guidance as she prepares for the ballroom debut, while headlines swirl around Pete Wicks and Jowita Przystał.

Culture & Entertainment 4 months ago
Vicky Pattison leans on Strictly veterans for tips ahead of first live show as Wicks-Przystał romance surfaces

Vicky Pattison says she has been inundated with advice from former Strictly Come Dancing contestants ahead of Saturday’s first live show. The 37-year-old reality TV personality is paired with pro Kai Widdrington in this year’s edition, as the long-running ballroom competition inches toward its live-phase kickoff.

Pattison described the influx of tips as a calming boost, telling reporters that she could not have asked for a better support network around her. “I’ve been absolutely inundated with brilliant advice. I couldn’t ask for a better circle around me,” she said, signaling that veteran perspectives are shaping her approach to the forthcoming performances. The show’s format and timetable place Saturday’s live performance at the center of fans’ attention as the cast begins its dance-floor run.

Angela Scanlon, who competed in 2023, offered one practical suggestion Pattison has already started to put into practice: soaking feet in surgical spirits early to toughen them up and lessen pain once the routines begin. Pattison quoted Scanlon’s guidance, saying, “Angela Scanlon told me to start soaking my feet in surgical spirits early. Apparently, it toughens them up and helps with the pain when your trotters start hurting!” Pattison also described Pete Wicks, who was paired with Jowita Przystał in 2024, as offering a more improv-based approach. “He couldn’t believe he made it through each week! His advice was to work hard, keep your head down, be yourself, and enjoy it. It’s honestly lovely having both of their perspectives.”

![](


Sources