Len Goodman: Strictly judge to get public memorial in Dartford

Council leader Jeremy Kite added: “When I met with representatives of Len’s family to see Adrian’s proposals we couldn’t help smiling.

“It’s a perfect tribute to a perfect gentleman.”

Goodman was the first head judge the BBC One hit show, joining the cast in 2004 and remaining a judge until 2016.

He also fronted US show Dancing With The Stars from 2005 to 2022, when he retired to spend more time with his family in the UK.

The Kent-born dancer found fame aged 60 when he was a last minute addition to the Strictly Come Dancing judging panel.

When one judge pulled out, professional dancer Erin Boag suggested Goodman to producers.

“He’s just a dance teacher from Dartford, but he’s a bit of a character,” she said.

The council has not revealed what the artwork will look like but has said it will include a nod to Goodman’s famous catchphrase “seven”.

Scarborough-based artist Mr Riley has previously made word-based art for the NHS, National Trust and RSPB across the UK.