ROMANCE is said to be blossoming between Blackburn’s Strictly Come Dancing star and her professional partner.

According to sources, AJ Odudu and her dancing partner Kai Widdrington have started dating after weeks of intense training for the BBC One show.

This morning the Mail on Sunday ‘confirmed’ that the pair were an item after insiders claimed they have been making ‘no effort’ to keep a secret of their romance.

On Saturday night Blackburn-born AJ and Strictly newcomer Kai danced a passionate Argentine Tango which was applauded by the judges and saw them awarded a score of 35 – with head judge Shirley Ballas getting out her ten paddle.

AJ has previously commented on the pair’s relationship, admitting that there was chemistry in their dancing.

The 33-year-old rose to fame with presenting gigs on major TV shows such as Big Brother’s bit on the side and The Voice Kids.

AJ, who regularly talks about her love of her hometown of Blackburn, still visits the North West often, with her family still living in the town.

This week in an interview with Grazia magazine she said: “Growing up in Blackburn had its ups and downs, but I love my hometown with a passion.”

Strictly Come Dancing: the results will air on BBC One this evening (Sunday) at 7.15.