A VENTRILOQUIST who hails from Basingstoke was mingling with the stars on Saturday night when he appeared live on BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing.

Watched by millions of viewers, Steve Hewlett was joined by his dummy ‘Rod Vegas’ alongside the show’s presenter, Claudia Winkleman as she informed people about the terms and conditions of voting.

Tweeting about the experience during the programme, Steve said: “Having a great time with the BBC Strictly team and the very funny Claudia Winkleman. The atmosphere here is incredible.”

Steve, who rose to fame after coming fourth on Britain’s Got Talent in 2013, has since become a well-known name in the world of entertainment, and has kept busy with a string of tours and shows around the country.

He is currently touring with the Talents of Britain show alongside acts including Stavros Flatley, Paul Burling and John Clegg.

The father-of-two is now preparing to take his act to America to work with The Osmonds before returning to the UK with the singing family for a Christmas show.

Steve’s appearance on Strictly was the end of a busy week for the 41-year-old, who returned to his home town to perform on Friday night at Oakridge West Community Centre, where he entertained a full-house with some of his most popular puppet characters, including Arthur Lager.

For more information visit thestevehewlettshow.com.