Strictly Come Dancing's Neil Jones will reportedly not be partnered with a celebrity on this year's show.

The 38-year-old has been part of the professional lineup since 2014 but only became one of the main dancers last year, partnering with former footballer Alex Scott and finishing fifth.

According to the Daily Star, producers have decided to return him to background dancer status for the new series, which begins late next month.

A source told the newspaper: "After a lot of discussion it was decided that Neil will be dropped from the lineup of professional dancers, so he won't be partnered with a contestant.

"He will still be part of the show, but only in group ­routines. So viewers won't see much of him any more."

Jones will also be in the mix as a backup should any of the partnered professionals be forced to pull out.