A DAD from Harpenden proved it really does take two to tango after scooping first prize in a Strictly Come Dancing-themed charity competition.

Alex White, of Alzey Gardens, took on eight other finalists at an event held at the Emirates Stadium in aid of Cancer Research UK.

And to his surprise his Argentine Tango, which he performed with professional dance partner Trudina Youngs, caught the judge’s eye and enabled him to lift the glitter ball trophy.

The 51 year old, who works for Tesco.com, said: “When we were practising for the big night, Trudi and I thought we had a good routine and if we performed it well we might be in with a chance of winning the glitter ball. But I hardly dared hope we might actually win.

“Even after we got a great score from the judges, I was genuinely surprised and delighted to be named the winning couple.

“It is the first time I’ve won anything, ever and being able to hold the trophy aloft was a magical moment that I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”

The couples performed in front of a panel of dance experts including James Goodman, the son of Strictly Come Dancing’s head judge Len Goodman.

Other staff members from Tesco.com, who organised the fundraising evening, were also able to cast their vote via text and donate £1 to the cancer charity.

The triumphant dad-of-two added: “My mum was successfully treated for breast cancer a couple of years ago, and I’m so grateful for the research which has made the treatment of so many cancers possible now.

“There is still a lot to do though, and I know that the money raised will make a real difference for the future.”

More than £26,000 was raised from the event, which will help support research into improving the early diagnosis and detection of cancer.