BBC Strictly takes huge step amid misconduct scandals as chaperones to be introduced

The BBC is to put a member of the production staff in all future rehearsals following complaints about two of the professional dancers.

The broadcaster has said there will also be two new dedicated welfare producers on the show.

The series of extra measures comes following Di Prima's axe from the series, which came as a result of a BBC investigations sparked by claims made against Giovanni Perince.

Neither choreographer will be returning to the show. The BBC is also planning to delvier further training for the production team and crew.

Kate Phillips, the BBC's director of unscripted, said in a report by the broadcaster: "Whilst we know our shows have been positive experiences for the vast majority of those who have taken part, if issues are raised with us, or we’re made aware of inappropriate behaviour, we will always take that seriously and act.

"Concerns that have arisen have been fundamentally related to training and rehearsals.

"The decisive steps we have taken and are announced today, act to further strengthen the welfare and support in place for everyone involved with this production."

Earlier on Tuesday, McDermott broke her silence over the scandal. Taking to social media, the Love Island star penned: "I felt it was right that I post something regarding the recent media reports.

"Strictly is one of the most magical shows on TV and one that I dreamt of being on since I was a little girl. When I was invited to be a contestant on the show it really was a childhood dream come true.

"I fully understood the level of commitment and hard work that Strictly was going to be and I dedicated everything to it. I am a resilient person and I was fully prepared to put in whatever it took."

McDermott went on to say: "So much of my Strictly experience was everything I could have dreamt of. The entire production team and everyone behind the scenes as well as my fellow contestants were so amazing to work with.

"However, my experience inside the training room was very different. Reports have been made about my treatment on the show and there were witnesses to some events, as well as videos of particular incidents which are incredibly distressing to watch."

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The 27-year-old concluded: "I have wrestled with the fear of opening up - I was scared about public backlash, I was scared about my future, I was scared of victim shaming.

"But after a lot of conversation with those I love, I've gained the strength to face these fears, and when I was asked to speak to the BBC, I spoke candidly about my time on the show.

"The culture within our society makes it difficult for people to speak up, especially in a world where social media opinions and voices are so loud. This is something I've seen through working with countless women on my documentaries.

"I would like to thank the BBC & BBC Studios for their swift action and incredibly high level of support, as well as everyone who has reached out to me - it truly means a lot.

"Love, always. Zara," the former Strictly star signed off. The BBC has declined to comment on the saga, citing that it never comments on "individual cases".

The claims against Di Prima resulted from a BBC probe into the show following claims made against Giovanni Pernice.