ONE of Andover’s most famous faces has spoken at length about her Strictly Come Dancing experience.

Katies Piper’s tale is one of overcoming adversity after the attack on her, at just 24-years-old, in which her ex-partner Danny Lynch paid Stefan Sylvestre to throw sulphuric acid in her face on the street.

Katie chose to use this horrific experience to raise awareness and help others.

Sadly one thing that took a serious knock was her confidence, part of the reason the presenter decided to take part in the BBC primetime show Strictly Come Dancing this year.

“I wanted to do something different, get out my comfort zone and channel my fun side, Also what an amazing way to learn such a great new skill – being taught by some of the best dancers in the world!” said Katie, who was voted out of the show after her fourth performance last month.

At first, Katie admits battling her nerves was horrendous.

She added: “The first show I was like a rabbit in headlights – being on the dancefloor felt absolutely alien to me. I was quite hard on myself at the beginning too which didn’t bode well for my confidence.

“My time on Strictly was incredible, and although I wasn’t the best dancer, my new found confidence has given me such a boost.”

Katie was paired with professional dancer Gorka Marquez, who she describes as “kind and patient.”

About the whole experience, however, she said: “My absolute highlight was seeing my parents and husband in the audience knowing how proud they were of me. Being able to share the experience with my loved ones was such a special feeling.”

Now away from our screens, Katie is busier than ever.

She said: “I’ve just launched my new podcast Katie Piper’s Extraordinary People – I have been very fortunate to interview some very inspirational people for this, it’s a real passion project.

“I’ve also launched my new book Confidence: The Journal which I am so pleased to say is already a best-seller. 2019 will also see some exciting projects but I’m looking forward to a break with the family at Christmas.”

Hailing from Andover, she added: “Thank you so much for all the love and support you have shown during my time on Strictly. Reading the positive tweets and comments during the process from my hometown gave me the biggest lift and I am so grateful.”

Katie Piper’s ‘Confidence, The Journal’ by Quercus Books is available at all good book stores.