I've worked with Shirley Ballas on Strictly for years but my jaw dropped at brutal move

It's not often that Craig Revel Horwood is left speechless on Strictly Come Dancing, but the veteran judge admitted that one recent incident left him with his "jaw on the floor."

The dancer and choreographer, 60, has been on the Strictly judging panel since its inception in 2004 and has become well known for his sharp tongue and brutally honest critiques.

However, even Craig was taken aback when his co-star Shirley Ballas awarded La Voix just two points for her Cha Cha Cha with professional partner Alja Škorjanec during week four of the comeptition.

The Drag Race star, 45, and Alja, 35, ended up with the lowest score of the week - a mere 14 points out of 40. Shirley's score of two infuriated fans, sparking calls for her to be sacked from the programme. Even Craig thought the performance deserved more, as he reflected on the controversial moment at the Pride of Britain Awards.

Of the harsh score, Craig quipped: "I thought that was a bit rough! My jaw was dropping. I thought it was at least worth a three. But I did feel for La Voix because it went horribly wrong from the moment she set foot on the stage. Apparently she had a fantastic rehearsal but anyway, it can only get better."

Opening up about the difficulties La Voix faces while competing on the show, Craig said: "I think La Voix faces a lot of challenges. Obviously she's got to go backwards, which is always a challenge because she's playing the girl in every dance. But she's out and proud and loving it.

"I think what she is doing is really great and it's fantastic having that representation."

Last weekend, La Voix came back with a bang as she performed an incredible Salsa to Strong Enough by Cher during Icons Week.

After her performance, Craig declared: "You are, I guess, a bit of a comeback queen because last week was so appaling - anything would be better!"

La Voix playfully hit back: "I knew you'd love it Craig because you're the only judge who remembers Cher's career from the beginning."

"I've never seen him lost for words before," exclaimed presenter Tess Daly. A very fitting end to Icons Week."

La Voix managed to double her score, earning 28 points out of 40 from the judges. During Saturday night's Halloween Special, La Voix and Alja will perform the Paso Doble to The 5th by Beethoven.