WHITCHURCH'S Strictly Come Dancing star, AJ Pritchard, has decided to call it a day on the hit BBC One show in order to explore a presenting career.

AJ, who has spent four years on the show, finishing in the top six each time but never picking up the Glitterball trophy, will look to present programmes alongside brother, and fellow dancer, Curtis, who has appeared on Love Island and Dancing with the Stars in Ireland.

In a post on Instagram, the 25-year-old confirmed his departure in a statement from his team.

"After four years on Strictly Come Dancing, AJ has decided the time is right to leave the show and follow his dreams to explore opportunities in the presenting world alongside his brother Curtis," it said.

"AJ would like to thank the team at Strictly and everyone at the BBC for giving him such a brilliant opportunity.

“AJ would also like to send his love and gratitude to all who have followed and supported his career.

“He is excited for you all to join him on the next chapter of his journey.”

AJ began his Strictly career in 2016 and reached the semi-finals with Olympic gymnast Claudia Fragapane, before coupling up with Saturdays singer Mollie King, 32, coming in fifth place.

In 2018, he got the same result the year after with British Paralympic athlete Lauren Steadman, 27 while in his last series, he came sixth with YouTube star Saffron Barker.