Prince Harry dials in to Strictly to say he is ‘proud’ of JJ Chalmers

The Duke of Sussex made a surprise appearance in Strictly Come Dancing to tell JJ Chalmers how "proud" he is of the former Royal Marine.

The TV presenter and veteran, who was injured by a bomb blast in Afghanistan in 2011, previously competed in the Invictus Games, which Prince Harry founded.

Chalmers and partner Amy Dowden received the surprise call during training.

Harry said: "When I first met JJ he was a shell of himself, but then to see you shine through Invictus and to feel like yourself again, that was a start of an amazing journey."

He said he is "genuinely proud" of Chalmers, adding: "You are not a dancer – proving that you can actually do anything that you can put your mind to, which is amazing."

Discussing Chalmers' training outfit, Harry told him he is "definitely having an impact on society, especially when you are wearing those tight blue shorts".

Chalmers praised the role of the Invictus Games in helping him recover from his injuries.

"The simple fact is that if Prince Harry had not created the Invictus Games, I would not have had that catalyst moment that changed my life forever.

"I wouldn't be here without him."

Chalmers and Dowden performed a jive during the programme and the pair were awarded 17 points

Chalmers, who performed in military uniform, said he wanted to represent the armed forces during the performance.

"I'm having the time of my life, regardless of what happens," he said.

Judge Craig Revel Horwood said he "loved the routine, but it just needs a lot more energy".