HER victory in Strictly Come Dancing was not to be, but it was Lisa Riley who won the nation’s hearts in the hit show.

The former Emmerdale star teamed up with professional Latin and ballroom dancer Robin Windsor and reached the semi-finals as millions watched on BBC1.

In doing so, she became an inspiration, smashing the preconception that dancers need to be thin and petite.

Lisa told Weekend: “I just went there and enjoyed myself. People did try and put me in a box and thought I’d be another John Sergeant or Ann Widdecombe.

“It just proves you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.

“Len Goodman called me the nation’s sweetheart and people have said I was an inspiration which makes me desperately proud.

“If seeing me has made anyone join their local dance class then that’s brilliant.”

Among those obviously impressed by Lisa’s charm and talent was Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood who wrote a stage show for her.

‘Strictly Confidential’ gives fans a sneak-peek behind the scenes of the Saturday night series told through Lisa’s eyes.

Expect sequins and spray tans as Lisa’s journey from soapstar to dancing queen is recreated at The Lowry with the help of Artem Chigvintsev, Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite.

The 37-year-old added: “It’s been described as the ultimate dance spectacular and variety show with something for everyone.

“Every show we get a standing ovation. It’s been fantastic.”

Lisa’s new challenge brings back memories of having to endure nine hours of training each day to prepare for Strictly.

“I had to keep up with the pros,” she said.

“They would literally watch a routine and a moment later be able to perform it.”

But she said it was all worth it – and she lost a lot of weight in the process.

The former You’ve Been Framed presenter added: “The response I had was something I’ll never get over.

“I’m the same person whatever size I am, but it proves people don’t have to go on fad diets to lose weight. Just do what I did – start dancing.” Lisa found fame on ITV’s Emmerdale playing the feisty Mandy Dingle for six years but she has ruled out a comeback despite the rumours.

She said: “My fondest memory was when I did an episode which just featured me and Dominic Brunt as Paddy.

“It was unheard of to do a ‘two-hander’ episode back then. I still can’t believe it.

“I still get recognised from Emmerdale and there’s a Mandy moment in the Strictly play. ”

n Strictly Confidential is at The Lowry from July 8 to 13. Tickets are from £20.50. Visit thelowry.com