Tyler West dedicates 'Strictly Come Dancing' success to his 'hero' NHS nurse mum

Strictly Come Dancing star Tyler West has dedicated his success in the competition to his "hero" mother, who works as a nurse in the NHS.

The 26-year-old, who presents a weekday radio show on Kiss FM, has consistently placed highly on the leaderboard with professional partner Dianne Buswell.

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The duo even scored a massive 38/40 from the judges for their Charleston to Flash, Bang, Wallop from the movie Half a Sixpence during week three.

"My whole Strictly experience is pretty much a dedication to my mum because there were times when we were younger where we didn’t have it easy," West told the Mirror.

He added: "For me to be out there on a Saturday night and having my mum come and watch the show and seeing her face light up and being able to support her in every way possible, it's everything I could have ever asked for."

West said he had been reminded of the importance of family in recent years, with mum Debbie recently rushed to hospital and also telling him about her time on the wards during the pandemic.

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"It was a pretty tough time for her. She was coming home after seeing all of these cases of Covid," he said.

"My mum would tell me how hard it was on the front line. It was a massive eye-opener but she's a hero for what she's done."

West said his Strictly experience with Buswell has "been the best thing for me in my life this year" and has allowed him to access his competitive side, years after representing Team GB at handball as a child.

He said the intensity of the schedule has taught him the value of his time and the importance of throwing yourself into experiences.

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"It's about choosing to be around loved ones and making the most of those times. And just giving your all into everything because it pays off in the end," said West.

On this weekend's show, West and Buswell are due to dance a Viennese Waltz to I’ve Been Loving You Too Long by Seal.

Watch: Who is Strictly Come Dancing contestant Tyler West?