It doesn’t matter if you think that Bruce Forsyth is the best thing since the invention of the mean lean grillin’ machine, or whether you just can’t imagine watching Strictly Come Dancing without the chin at the helm. Fact is, he’s getting old and retirement is on the cards. However, the decision to stay or go at Strictly is Brucie’s decision as Beeb bosses are reportedly keeping an open mind about his role in the next series.

Neither party has yet decided whether Forsyth, 80 in February, will continue as a host, a source told The People. He is apparently due to discuss his future with producers. “Brucie is the consummate professional when it comes to presenting,” commented the insider. “He has been there and done it for years, and nobody is doubting his ability. But he is getting on and will be 80 next year.

The source continued, “The constant pressures that come with fronting a top, twice-weekly prime-time show are hard work and we completely understand if he decides to call it a day. Equally, if he wants to carry on then who are we to say no?”

Forsyth said recently: “Retirement is always at the back of my mind. I think I’ll know when is the right time to stop. When I walk on to a studio floor, I still feel as though I’m 35… but there’ll be one night when I walk out, trip over, fall on my face and the first aid man comes. That’ll be, ‘Thank you and good night!’”