HUNDREDS of dance fans from across the region saw a local contestant make a final bid to win a television talent show.

The three remaining couples on BBC's Strictly Dance Fever came to Darlington during a whistle-stop tour to win over fans ahead of Saturday night's live final.

Among them was Darrien Wright, 21, from Darlington, and his partner, Hollie Robertson, who received a rapturous reception from the huge crowd in Darlington's Market Square.

Although presenter Graham Norton was due to attend, he cancelled because of work commitments.

However, that did not dampen the crowd's mood, as they cheered on the couples.

Many waved banners in support of Darrien, and friends and supporters from as far afield as Scotland cheered him on.

Each couple performed two dances, which they will repeat on Saturday night as they bid to be crowned Strictly Dance Fever champions, which offers a prize of £50,000 and a role in a West End show.

Darrien and Hollie performed their melonga routine, which earned the judges' only 40 out of 40 score in the competition.

The couples had to dance twice more yesterday in Milton Keynes and Essex.

The final will be on BBC1 on Saturday at 6pm. To vote for Darrien and Hollie, call 0901 121 2410.