Strictly Come Dancing former professional dancers Janette Manrara and Aljaž Skorjanec are happier than ever after welcoming their daughter Lyra into the world this year.

As they gear up for their first Christmas as a family of three, It Takes Two host Janette, 40, has opened up on how the dance competition, which is often thought of as having a "curse" on couples, actually "saved" their relationship.

The brunette beauty and mum-of-one dismissed the notion in a new interview, as she reflected on her "soul-mate" relationship with Slovenian star Aljaž, 33.

The couple met and got together three years before joining the programme, and at the time, they were wondering how they would cope with a long-distance relationship.

Janette was living in Miami, Florida, where she's from, and Aljaž was living in his home town in Slovenia.

"We always say that with Strictly Come Dancing, there's no curse for us, it's a Strictly blessing because it really saved our relationship," Janette explained to Best magazine.

She went on to say: "Strictly came along and offered us a spot as professional dancers and that was the biggest blessing of our whole relationship.

"The show was a massive part of us staying together and getting married.

"I'd like to presume we would have got married no matter what because we're soulmates, but I think Strictly made it so much easier for our romance to really flourish," Janette added.

As the pair gear up for an exciting first Christmas with Lyra and their festive dance show, they have also been celebrating Janette's big birthday as she turned 40 last week.

The star was presenting It Takes Two on her actual birthday, and in a special moment on the show, the crew presented her with a giant cake and an icing figure of herself.

Stars Bobby Brazier, 20, Dianne Buswell, 34, Nigel Harman, 50, and Katya Jones, 34, also came out wearing party hats.

Aljaž and baby Lyra were then seen wishing Janette happy birthday in a special pre-recorded message that played out on-screen.

The presenter was overwhelmed with all the joy and festivities, and she became teary as soon as her baby daughter appeared.

"Hello mummy, we want to wish you a Happy Birthday with lots of love and happiness," Janette's proud husband gushed. "We're so proud of you. You're an amazing mum and beautiful wifey.

"40 has never looked better – sorry, I shouldn't have said the age – and we can't wait to have you home to give you a cuddle but go and smash the show and don't forget… keep dancing!"

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