Pixie Lott defends her place in Strictly Come Dancing 2014

Pixie Lott has defended her position in Strictly Come Dancing, after fans questioned whether her pop career gave her an unfair advantage.

The All About Tonight singer has defended her place in Strictly, following concerns that her pop career and education in theatre school would give her the advantage over other contestants.

Speaking to Bang Showbiz, Pixie explained: "It's completely different. I think because I'm used to getting up on stage and singing my own songs with my band and I'm so comfortable that I don't get nervous at all.I just enjoy myself and absolutely love it, like I did a little show last night and I was just in my element. And then, doing this, is just ... I feel completely different.”

The singer took part in Strictly’s opening show on Sunday.

It was glamorous as ever, with all the celebrities officially meeting their professional dancers.

The show also had a sad note, as long-running presenter Bruce Forsythe handed over the reins to new presenters Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly.

Last year’s winners Abbey Clancy and her partner Aljaz Skorjanec also showed up for one last dance, as they performed their waltz.

Providing additional entertainment were Australian boy band 5 Seconds of Summer alongside Smokey Robinson and Imelda May.#