ANGELA Rippon is taking the mascot of a Wellington-based charity with her n the Strictly Come Dancing tour.

Archie the scarecrow will be joining Angela and Kai Widdrington, her dance partner on the hit BBC show, along with the other professionals and celebrities.

Angela has packed Archie in her bags ahead of the first tour date in Birmingham on January 19 in her capacity of patron of Reminiscence Learning.

Fiona Mahoney, of Reminiscence Learning, said: "This is a huge promotion for our Archie Project that we host in schools throughout the UK, teaching children about dementia and how they can better interact with those living with dementia.

"Archie is the mascot for our Archie Project and the children will love seeing their friend travel across the UK.

Angela Rippon posted on social media: "Hi Archie fans. Kai and I are starting rehearsals for the Strictly Come Dancing tour. And Archie is coming too. Today we taught him a Cha Cha Cha. Angela x.”