Giovanni Pernice has spoken out for the first time since the BBC revealed the results of an investigation into Strictly Come Dancing. Earlier this year, it was revealed that Strictly was at the centre of an internal probe following complaints made about Giovanni’s alleged conduct by his former celebrity dance partner Amanda Abbington.

Broadcaster says it takes any allegations of bullying and harassment ‘very seriously’ as it publishes long-awaited report

The Mirror has now revealed that while Italian Giovanni’s camp insisted those six had been “trivial”, Amanda disagreed. She believes they ­proved her ­decision to speak out was the right thing to do. Among the upheld complaints were claims of “isolated incidents where Giovanni swore or threw his hands in the air”.