DANCE teacher Graham Vernon, from Samlesbury, gives his verdict on the fourth episode on Strictly Come Dancing.

Christine and Matthew The introduction was too long but when they finally did start to Quickstep it looked really good. Some beautiful head movements, graceful and poised, good strength and control on the scatter chasse. Overall a good-looking, clean routine.

Jodie and Ian Really nice upper body movements but Jodie’s beautiful long legs just needed to be stretched that little bit further to finish the lines. I thought it started well and I was expecting more but unfortunately the routine slipped downhill. More expression and emotion of ‘lurve’ would have enhanced the performance.

Heather and Brian A quirky little Quickstep, good basic routine to start but a bit heavy footed in the syncopated section. Should Brian have kept the routine simpler for her? I think so.

Cherie and James Oh my word! What a fabulous hip action Cherie has. This was a beautifully choreographed routine demonstrated to perfection. I sat there and felt as if I was dancing it with them - the best Rumba I have ever seen on Strictly. It's one of the hardest dances to master and was deserving of a ten from the judges - why are they holding them back?

Jessie and Darren For me the standard of the routine was set too hard for Jessie’s ability - it looked like Darren was dragging her round the floor. Her posture was too far forward and there was hardly any rise through her feet. However, she didn’t fluff on the steps they must have spent hours and hours rehearsing, as it was definitely the most complicated Quickstep of the night. Do you think this cost them their place in next week's show? Or was it time for Jessie to go anyway?

Lisa and Brendan Another beautiful demonstration of the Rumba, gorgeous arm lines and oozing with passion. Quite unsteady on her feet in places which just took the edge off it. If it was just finished that little bit more it would have been a very close second to Cherie.

Rachel and Vincent A truly quality Quickstep, with beautifully executed lines, excellent posture and footwork. Rachel looked so at home dancing round the floor, again deserving of a ten, WOW!

Group Dance ‘La Ruada’ Not quite sure what to make of it to be honest. Part of it reminded me of an African war dance but there were a few little rays of sunshine from Austin and Tom. But what are the cameramen on? Some of the shots just spoil the dance, is anyone else finding it the same?

My favourites so far For me it is Rachel and Cherie as the top two girls and Austin and Tom as the top two boys. All four of them are very strong and far outshine the other contestants, but it will make the semi final gripping television.