It has been confirmed that Bill Bailey will take part in the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.

The comedian says: "In these are strange times we're living through, it feels right to do something different and take on a new challenge. So I am delighted to be a part of this year's unique Strictly Come Dancing. My late mum Madrin would have loved it - I hope she'll be watching."

The 18th series of the hit dancing show will be broadcast on BBC One on Saturday and Sunday nights this autumn.

He has previously quipped that he had been invited to compete in the show by producers, but told them he would only do so if he could appear in character. When asked which character, he told them 'Abu Hamza' - a notorious, hook-handed Islamist hate preacher, who is now serving life imprisonment in the United States.

Other contestants already revealed include actor Caroline Quentin; NFL player Jason Bell; Max George, a singer with The Wanted; presenter Ranvir Singh; presenter Clara Amfo; and boxer Nicola Adams.