Strictly's Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman were moved to tears after receiving a heartfelt message from the late Bruce Forsyth's widow.

The presenting duo stunned viewers in September when they revealed their departure from the glamorous BBC One programme. Tess and Claudia have helmed the show as a team since 2014, with Claudia taking over from Sir Bruce Forsyth, who originally co-hosted alongside Tess from 2004.

During their appearance on It Takes Two on Tuesday (December 9), the pair discussed their decision to step away from the show. The conversation became particularly touching when Bruce Forsyth's wife, Wilnelia Merced, surprised them with a special video message.

"Hello Tess and Claudia. Sending you all my warmest wishes as you step into this exciting new chapter," Wilnelia said. She continued: "Tess you so shared so many wonderful years on Strictly with Bruce and I know that he would be so proud of you.

"And Claudia your sparkle and wit have brought so much joy to everyone. Thank you both for the laughter and heart you have brought to the show. And don't forget life is too short, so keep dancing!", reports Wales Online.

Clearly touched by the tribute, Claudia responded: "That's beautiful," whilst Tess expressed her gratitude: "That's so lovely thank you Winnie so much."

Elsewhere on the programme, the duo chatted to Fleur East about their stint on the show, with Tess making a heartfelt confession. She revealed: "We haven't had time to think about it because we've been so into the series, so absorbed by it - such a brilliant series. All our focus is on that really, so it's going to be a bit of a shock on the 20th. I might get emotional."

Claudia added: "I think we will be emotional, but of course, it won't be about us, it'll be about the winners, so that's quite good," to which Tess responded: "We're not allowed to cry."

Tess revealed her departure in September. She posted on Instagram: "After 21 unforgettable years, the time has come to say goodbye to Strictly Come Dancing. It's hard to put into words what this show has meant to me, so here goes.

"Strictly has been more than just a television programme. It's felt like having a third child, a second family, and a huge part of my life since that very first show back in 2004. I knew then it was something special.

"But I could never have imagined the magic it would bring. Strictly has always been about joy, celebration, and bringing people together - and I'm so proud to have played a small part in something that continues to mean so much to so many."

Strictly Come Dancing airs every weekend on BBC One.