WATCH: BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice visits Slater Menswear in Inverness

BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing star, Giovanni Pernice, who is set to join the judging panel at this year’s Strictly Inverness, popped into Slater Menswear to pick up his kilt for the big show next month.

Strictly Inverness will return for its 13th edition in May.

The event, which raises funds for both Highland Hospice and Inverness Ice Centre, will take place from May 8, 2024 to May 11 and the competition includes same sex couples for the first time.

When visiting Slater Menswear in Inverness, Giovanni said: “I’m in Slater’s because I am picking up my kilt as I am going to be in Inverness on May 11 for Strictly Inverness, which is obviously a dream come true, so go get a ticket and come see me.”

Highland Hospice fundraiser Carrie Macdonald commented: "We are so excited to be welcoming Giovanni to Inverness in May. He is a huge household name, particularly for Strictly fans. The ladies are going to go wild for him!"

Strictly Inverness is the biggest fundraising event held annually for both Highland Hospice and Inverness Ice Centre.

Last year's four-night extravaganza raised a staggering total of £250,000 for the charities.

Previous celebrity guest judges for the Saturday final have been Anton du Beke, Flavia Cacace-Mistry and last year, Aljaz Scorjanec and Janette Manrana.

Thirty-two novices are brought on board, partnered with each other and then trained by the expert group of dance tutors employed by the charities, between January and May.

Couples are set to perform in front of an audience of 600 people and a panel of judges on the Thursday or Friday semi-finals, resulting in the final eight couples battling it in Saturday's Grand Final to determine the overall winner.

For more information or to book tickets to Strictly Inverness, visit the Highland Hospice website.

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