BBC employee claims he was offered cocaine by Strictly star amid drug allegations

A former employee of the BBC has alleged that he was offered cocaine by a Strictly Come Dancing star. The unnamed man, who worked behind the scenes on the broadcaster's dancing competition for a decade, has claimed that he saw a number of its celebrity contestants 'partying' after filming was over and alleged that he saw stars 'drinking and taking drugs' at the time.

The employee claimed that bags of white powder, suspected to be cocaine, were found on two separate occasions in the smoking area and also in the men’s toilets. He then claimed that one of its stars offered him some cocaine at a party after filming on the Blackpool stage of the contest had wrapped.

A BBC spokesperson told The Mirror: “We have clear protocols and policies in place for dealing with any serious complaint raised with us. We would always encourage people to speak to us if they have concerns. It would not be appropriate for us to comment further."

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Last week, bosses reportedly launched an investigation into claims that two of its stars took cocaine. The BBC has hired law firm Pinsent Masons to probe the allegations. A source told the Sun, following the breakout news: "The BBC is taking the allegations really seriously. Bosses are aware of the two stars in question and have a duty of care to make sure they’re OK."

They added: "As per BBC policy, the option of specialised professional support is on the table and will be offered. While drug testing won’t happen on the main show, bosses are considering bringing in random checks for the tour next year."

The source claimed the BBC are needing to be sure there are no illegal activities taking place and are waiting for the investigation's findings.

It's the latest scandal to rock the long-running series. It comes after drug use claims were submitted to the BBC in March by Russells Solicitors on behalf of a celebrity contestant.

It's believed that other individuals have also brought forward allegations of drug consumption on Strictly Come Dancing to the BBC. Earlier in the week, it was reported that one such allegation involved a Strictly star who allegedly commented on another individual's dilated pupils. They are said to have hinted at drug intoxication, saying: "Have you seen their pupils... they're off their face".

And The Sun also claimed that a celebrity alleged it is common knowledge within the show's circle that two stars were using cocaine, a topic that was reportedly rife among the cast.

In a statement shared with the Mirror over the weekend, a representative for the BBC said: "We have clear protocols and policies in place for dealing with any serious complaint raised with us. We would always encourage people to speak to us if they have concerns. It would not be appropriate for us to comment further."

The fresh blow comes amidst speculation over which famous faces could be set to take to the dancefloor when the show returns in just a matter of weeks.

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