Revealed: Why Strictly star Pete Wicks put a stop to his romantic liaison with dance partner Jowita Przystal

They’re the Strictly couple who have thrilled viewers as they have become more than just friends.

But The Mail on Sunday can reveal that Pete Wicks has put a stop to his romantic liaison with dance partner Jowita Przystal – because he is determined to win the heart of I’m A Celebrity’s Maura Higgins.

Sources close to Mr Wicks, 36, say he is telling friends he is completely smitten with the jungle star, 34, who he has been casually dating for the past five months.

When he began Strictly and met Ms Przystal, Ms Higgins gave up any hope of the relationship continuing. 

And when she was interviewed before entering I’m A Celeb ten days ago, she left Mr Wicks heartbroken when she declared herself to be single.

Wicks is determined to win the heart of I’m A Celebrity’s Maura Higgins 

A friend said: ‘Before Maura entered the jungle, Pete wanted to make their relationship exclusive. 

‘But Maura, aware of Pete’s reputation and his close bond with Jowita, decided to slow things down. 

‘She gave him an ultimatum: either commit to her or let it go.

‘So she went off a single woman. 

‘Since then, Pete has gone all-in, openly expressing his feelings to anyone who’ll listen.

‘Although he continues to dance with Jowita weekly, their off-the-floor relationship isn’t as close as it once was.’

Last night, as the remaining contestants hit the ballroom for musicals week, Mr Wicks and Ms Przystal danced a waltz to Somewhere from West Side Story. 

The pair scored 26 out of 40 for their efforts on the dance floor.