LAST week he was told he could be the love child of Strictly’s most notorious contestants, Ann Widdecombe and John Sergeant.

And the week before he faced harsh criticism from Craig Revel-Horwood, who cruelly told him “you are the exception to the rule that anyone can dance”.

But despite the barrage of nasty comments from the judges, and being the bookies’ favourite to go each week, Hampshire’s Scott Mills has been repeatedly saved by the public from the dreaded dance-off.

This has caused controversy among some, who believe those struggling at the bottom of the leader board are being saved at the expense of the more proficient dancers.

But for the millions of viewers voting to keep their favourites in, it is more than just a dance show – it is about entertainment and seeing the journey that contestants like Scott, who have never danced before, have made.

And it is that continued support that has made the Radio 1 DJ determined to “keeeeeeep dancing”.

From the beginning Scott, who grew up in Eastleigh, admitted that he was not a natural dancer and that his footwork would not be the fanciest.

And since being partnered with professional dancer Joanne Clifton, the presenter has trained tirelessly, squeezing in vital hours in between his daily radio shows.

His efforts, however, have not won him praise from the Strictly judges – which has been disheartening for Scott.

Last week, after Scott performed his Charleston, Bruno Tonioli said: “How can I put it? Your dance skills are unique. You could be the love child of Ann Widdecombe and John Sergeant.”

But he has proved a hit with the viewers, who have got him through to Hallowe’en week – a milestone which he never believed he would reach.

Speaking to the Daily Echo as he rehearsed for tonight’s show, Scott said: “I can’t believe I’m in the Hallowe’en show. Getting to Hallowe’en was all I wanted really. Who would have thought I would make it through to week six? It is bonkers.

“I think a lot of people watching the show would love to have the chance to do it, and a lot of them know they would find it difficult, so I think that’s where they can relate to me a bit. They have put themselves in my place and understand how difficult it is.

“I am doing the best I can do and I am proud of myself for even saying yes to it. I was asked to do it three years ago and said no but this time I just found some courage from somewhere and I’m very glad I did.

“It is a brilliant experience, but on occasion I get down when I am not getting a routine or when the judges say something a bit nasty. It is quite an emotional up and down.

“To use an overused phrase, it is quite a rollercoaster but the public voting me in each week is one of the high points.

“I think the support from the Daily Echo and all its readers is really helping. It is nice because it makes a connection with people who may not have realised that I was from Hampshire before. So thanks to the Echo and its readers for the support.”

Tonight Scott with tackle the foxtrot, the dance he has been looking forward to the most, dressed as Uncle Fester as they dance to the theme of The Addams Family.

He admits that he has been watching the movie to get some tips on how best to transform himself into the character and revealed that he will be performing a floor spin.

The former Crestwood College pupil added: “I love the foxtrot. It is really fun. I find it easier when I can be a character because I am not being myself. When I am just dancing and it is me, I find it really exposing. So I am really looking for to being Uncle Fester because I can be a character, hide behind that and give it my all.”

  • Strictly Come Dancing is on BBC1 tonight at 6.30pm.