SOUTH Essex star Kara Tointon has been crowned champion of Strictly Come Dancing.

Kara, who went to St Hilda's School in Westcliff, burst into tears as host Bruce Forsyth announced the winner.

Former EastEnders actress Kara, 27, described the experience as the best of her life.

She said: "It's just the most special thing that I've ever achieved." Turning to her dance partner Artem Chigvintsev, she said: "I want to thank this man, he's been wonderful". But she admitted she was "a bit embarrassed" to be handed the title as Chigvintsev reassured her: "You're amazing".

She was favourite to win the popular BBC One dancing competition, but faced stiff competition from Countryfile presenter Matt Baker who was runner up.