STRICTLY Come Dancing pro Nikita Kuzmin broke down in tears as he said an emotional goodbye to Layton Williams.
Last night Coronation Street star Ellie Leach, 22, beat West End star Layton and EastEnders actor Bobby Brazier to claim the top spot after three long months of training - making her the youngest ever.
But before the winner was crowed, each couple reminisced on their journey and opened up about what they were most grateful for.
During an teary segment, Layton said: "I could not have had a better partner, nothing phases him.
"If I say 'I want to dance more feminine or more masculine', he's so on board with that. He's let me be exactly who I want to be."
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Speaking to the camera, Nikita shared: "The whole thing with Layton is just really special, I will cherish it forever."
The pair were then filmed during dance rehearsals as Layton spoke about his experience and said: "I really have had the best time."
Becoming emotional, Nikita said: "The most special part of this partnership is that we made each other shine."
Welling up with tears, the professional dancer added: "I don't want to cry! I love you."
Layton also became teary-eyed and leaned in to give Nikita a hug.
The special moment followed the couples Argentine Tango to Tattoo by Loreen - their Favourite Dance.
They went on to impress fans with Friend Like Me by Ne-Yo for their Show Dance, as well as the Quickstep to Puttin’ On The Ritz by Gregory Porter - which was the Judges’ Pick.
While they all received excellent feedback, only one couple could lift the glitterball trophy.
Ellie was crowned this year's Strictly Come Dancing's winner.
The soap star told hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly after her name was announced: "I actually genuinely cannot believe this."
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Turning to her professional partner Vito Coppola, who was in tears, she said: "For once you're crying more than me, this is for you."
He responded: "I mean this is like the cherry on the cake, all the bruises and blisters, you have been so amazing, you are Strictly.
"You represent Strictly. You are the diamond, you are shining."
Ellie and Vito opted for a Jennifer Lopez Megamix in the Show Dance category, and took a second shot at the American Smooth to Ain’t That A Kick In The Head by Robbie Williams.
They also performed the Paso Doble to Insomnia by 2WEI - the Judges’ Pick - but not without Vito giving Ellie a kiss on the cheek.
