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

Another unbelievable week on Strictly Come Dancing.

Everybody who has spoken to me this week has wondered the same thing - how is John staying in?

I wish I had half the pulling power that he does.

Jodie and Ian - Quickstep
A great lively performance with strong shaping and top line. Jodie did seem a bit behind the beat at times but a big improvement on her posture. However, at times it looked as if Ian was having to work extra hard to keep hold of her.

Lisa and Brendan - Samba
Lisa has some nice technique developing which is very difficult to master in this style. She had good use of arms and again a lively performance all rolled together in a well-rehearsed routine.

Christine and Matthew - Waltz
A competent, graceful Waltz, with good use of lines and great fluidity. It is very difficult to make a Waltz sparkle, and she did a perfect job as it looked effortless.

Cherie and James - Cha Cha
What a little minx of a cha cha with a great hip and leg action and a good simple yet technical routine with great little cheeky sections. In the dance-off the nerves came back a little. Cherie, you have done a fantastic job over the past several weeks and I know you will be missed.

Austin and Erin - Tango
A very strong and passionate Tango but for me there was just something missing as It seemed a little forced in places. I think I have come to expect more from Austin, but still a very good high standard performance.

Rachel and Vincent - Rumba
What a beautiful portrayal of the Rumba. They captured all the elements the dance should have. The hardest technical step is the back basic which was danced perfectly, this has to be the best interpretation of the Rumba I have ever seen on Strictly.

John and Kristina - American Smooth
This was John's best dance yet, he didn’t look quite as frumpy or awkward as normal. However, his footwork was indescribable and the small amount of shaping was obviously led by Kristina. James’s comment at the end of Sunday's show summed it up for me - “please remember it is a dance competition and not a popularity contest”.

Tom and Camilla - Salsa
A very strong, fast and furious Salsa with some very complex figures executed immaculately. Tom was a little off time in parts especially on the solo sections, but a great performance. Do you think Austin would have been able to demonstrate the Salsa to the same level?