A musical maestro who helps ensure stars of Strictly Come Dancing keep in time is heading to Carlisle.

Pianist Alan Rogers is set to visit the University of Cumbria's Institute of the Arts.

Mr Rogers, who has been musical director for the Strictly Come Dancing live tours, is among the high-calibre professionals heading to the Brampton Road campus to meet students.

Professor Graeme Danby, one of the university's professors of practice, revealed some of those who are due to visit this academic year.

They include leading choreographers Michele Thorne, who has worked on countless television and stage shows and with many stars, and Shelby Williams, who is credited with musical theatre productions including Wind in the Willows and Bend It Like Beckham.

He revealed more about the inspirational appearances during The Princess Royal's visit to the university on Wednesday - just days before the live shows of the new series of the hit BBC 1 show kick off tonight (SAT).

Tonight's start of the live shows also coincides with tickets being released for the 2018 Strictly Come Dancing live tour.

Professor Danby aims to help his students create new networks with professionals and show the range of careers available in the arts.

Prof Danby said: "This is the quality that we're bringing to our campus. It is important to have that level for our students."