Taylforth foxtrots off Strictly

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Former EastEnders actress Gillian Taylforth has become the first woman to be thrown out of this year's series of Strictly Come Dancing.

A viewers' vote left the star, known to soap fans as Kathy Beale, in the bottom two - alongside model Jodie Kidd.

The couples were asked to perform their foxtrots again and the show's judges decided Taylforth deserved to go.

"I have really enjoyed myself, it's been great," she said. The show's male contestants face the public next week.

Taylforth's departure will come as a disappointment to her dancing partner, Anton du Beke, who has appeared in every series of the talent show.

His previous partners include singer Lesley Garrett, television presenter Esther Rantzen, actress Patsy Palmer and comedian Jan Ravens - but he has never made it to the final.

Judge Bruno Tonioli told Taylforth: "Gillian, compared to his previous partners you're Ginger Rogers and that is something."

Pop singer Rachel Stevens and rugby player Austin Healey are the bookmakers' favourites to win the sixth series of the show.

Last year's competition was won by R&B singer Alesha Dixon.