Aston Merrygold cut into 5-2 to win Strictly

Aston Merrygold has been cut into 5-2 (from 3-1) by leading bookmaker Coral to win Strictly Come Dancing after he impressed on the opening live show of the series. Mollie King and Alexandra Burke are both second best in the betting at 4-1, while the biggest mover in the betting tonight was Debbie McGee as her odds have been slashed into 7-1 (from 20-1).

In the first elimination market, Brian Conley is 2-1 favourite to leave, Simon Rimmer can be backed at 5-2, while Susan Calman, Richard Coles and Ruth Langsford are 6-1.

“Aston was the favourite in the betting going into the opening live show and he has justified that position with a strong performance therefore his odds have been cut once again to lift the Glitterball Trophy,” said Coral’s John Hill.

“Mollie King and Alexandra Burke are clearly strong contenders, however, the surprise package of the night was Debbie McGee who could be the dark horse of the series so her odds have been cut by more than half,” added Hill.

“The betting suggests Brian Conley needs a strong performance next weekend otherwise he will be the first contestant to leave, while Simon Rimmer could also be in the dance off unless he fares better next weekend,” concluded Hill.

**Strictly Come Dancing winner
5-2 Aston Merrygold, 4-1 Mollie King, Alexandra Burke, 7-1 Debbie McGee, 10-1 Gemma Atkinson, Davood Ghadami, Jonnie Peacock, Joe McFadden, 25-1 Charlotte Hawkins, 50-1 Chizzy Akudolu, Susan Calman, Richard Coles, 100-1 Ruth Langsford, Simon Rimmer, Brian Conley,

**First elimination
2-1 Brian Conley, 5-2 Simon Rimmer, 6-1 Susan Calman, Richard Coles, Ruth Langsford, 12-1 Chizzy Akudolu 16-1 Charlotte Hawkins, 25-1 Gemma Atkinson, 33-1 Bar

ENDS

Further contact information:
John Hill 07889 645520