'Gagged' stars told by BBC what they can Strictly say

Strictly Come Dancing stars have been gagged by the BBC in a secret memo that tells them what they can and can't say.

Dancers, celebrities and judges were given strict guidance on how to handle the backlash against the decision to replace Arlene Phillips, 66, with Alesha Dixon. The move has caused fury among those taking part. One said: "It's as if they are trying to brainwash us."

The memo gives answers to a series of questions including: "Is the BBC being ageist/sexist?" The answer is: "Age or gender has absolutely nothing to do with the decision to replace Arlene." They are also told to say new judge Dixon, 30, "is a great performer ... she will add a new voice to the panel".

A BBC spokesman said it was "ludicrous" to suggest the guidance was banning or gagging anyone.