New Strictly judges revealed

The 2009 show will see a shake up on the judging panelÂ…

08:36 10 July 2009

Former Strictly Come Dancing champion Alesha Dixon and ballet legend Darcey Bussell have officially joined the ballroom dance show's judging panel.

Rumours that Dixon had joined the programme surfaced in May, leaving Arlene Phillips off the line-up after four years.

It is said that Dixon's presence will "refresh" the show and keep viewers interested.

It has also been revealed that Darcey Bussell, who retired from professional ballet two years ago, will join the panel for the final three episodes in the series to offer her "technical expertise".

BBC One controller Jay Hunt said: "Darcey has impeccable credentials as a dancer - and as a guest judge she will bring an exciting new dimension to the last few weeks of the Strictly competition."

Phillips, a choreographer, will join the BBC's 'The One Show' as the Strictly Come Dancing expert in the lead-up to the new series in the autumn.

Regular judges Bruno Tonioli, Len Goodman and Craig Revel Horwood will return in the new series which this year will air on Friday and Saturday nights.