Strictly Come Dancing fans have said Paralympian Jonnie Peacock’s inclusion on the show is a “step forward”.

The athlete, 24, is a below the knee amputee – the first to compete on the main programme.

It was announced on The One Show that Peacock would be taking part in the BBC show and he said he hoped his turn on the dancefloor would “change a bit of the stigma”.

“I think this is the first time there has been a disabled person on the main show, so that’s going to be really good I think,” said the 24-year-old.

He said later: “The opportunity to be the first contestant with a disability to take part in Strictly’s main show was too good to turn down.

“I’ve got no previous dance history outside of the occasional ‘worm’ at a mate’s party and I know this will be a challenge and a new experience.

“I can’t wait to see what I can achieve and how far I can push myself.”

One person posted on Twitter: “Fab to see a Paralympian joining #Strictly – Hopefully Jonnie will inspire many more to get active, like he’s already done in #Athletics.”

Another said: “Another step forward for disability portrayals & #Inclusion as Jonnie Peacock 1st disabled contestant on Strictly Come Dancing!”

Peacock already seems to have won over many viewers who are already calling for him to win.

“Very pleased to see Jonnie Peacock announced for #Strictly, apart from being the first disabled celeb he’s also gorgeous,” tweeted one person.

Another quipped: “Omg Jonnie Peacock doing #Strictly. My ovaries will not survive this!”