Brendan Cole defends Charlotte Hawkins after Strictly criticism

Brendan Cole has angrily defended his partner Charlotte Hawkins after she was criticised over her Strictly Come Dancing performance.

The couple's cha cha on Saturday night and was mauled by the judges, with the pair receiving a total score of 12.

Judge Craig Revel Horwood declared it was "a complete dance disaster darling".

Taking to Twitter, Cole wrote: "It was definitely a tough night at the office & maybe the scores were just! What I object to is belittling someone who has worked hard and is clearly upset at the situation. I have no time for negativity when someone is down.

"It was obvious that things hadn't gone to plan and at that time you can be honest but constructively positive!

"This can be humiliating at the best of times and laughing at another's misfortune is disgusting and although Strictly is just an entertainment show, we invest time and emotion into it and therefore it matters to us who take part."