Dr Ranj Singh can't have male Strictly Come Dancing partner

Dr. Ranj Singh has been told he can\'t have a male partner on \'Strictly Come Dancing\'.

The TV medic - who is openly gay - had requested to dance with a man on the upcoming series of the Latin and ballroom show, branding the issue "incredibly important", but programme bosses insist they have "no plans" to move away from the traditional pairings.

A spokesperson told the Mail on Sunday newspaper: "\'Strictly\' has chosen the long-standing ballroom dancing format of mixed-sex couples and at the moment we have no plans to introduce same-sex couples."

The 39-year-old star previously insisted it would help with "progress" if he was partnered with a man on the show.

He said: "I would love to dance with a same-sex partner. I would value a time when same-sex couples could dance on shows like Strictly. It is incredibly important. We are making progress but I think there is still time to go."

Judges Shirley Ballas and Craig Revel Horwood have both backed campaigns calling for same-sex couples on the show.

Head judge Shirley said earlier this year: "I couldn\'t think of anything more exciting."

And Craig pointed out: "The tango was originally danced between two men anyway."

Last year\'s contestant Reverend Richard Coles, who is gay, has said it makes "no sense" to resist same sex couples taking part, while Judge Robert Rinder, who took part in 2016, has also called for the rules to change.

He said: "\'It would be great if it happens because visibility really does matter."

Meanwhile, Ranj recently admitted he feels "overwhelmed and excited" to have been asked to appear on \'Strictly\'.

He said: "I\'m so overwhelmed and excited to be part of this wonderful show. It\'s an absolute dream come true for me! I\'ve been a massive fan for so long, and I can\'t quite believe this is happening, but I\'m going to give it my best shot. Anyone that knows me knows that I love a bit of sparkle... so bring on the glitter! I can\'t wait!!"