The new series of Strictly Come Dancing is upon us and, with the full line-up now revealed, it’s time for the celebrities to get started.

And it seems that there are some friendships already being formed behind the scenes on the BBC programme, with former shadow chancellor Ed Balls and Olympic gymnast Claudia Fragapane having bonded.

The official BBC Strictly Instagram account has been sharing backstage pictures as the stars get ready to start the promotion process, which includes shooting the trailer for the series.

Along with a snap of Ed and Claudia standing side-by-side – with the politician towering over the petite sports star – read the caption: “One of the nicest things about #Strictly – seeing the unlikeliest of friendships blossom!”

There were also snaps revealed of two of this year’s contestants, model Daisy Lowe and TV presenter Laura Whitmore, getting dolled up to film the trailer.

As ever, there will be no expense spared when it comes to the glamour as the race kicks off to win the glitterball trophy!

BBC Breakfast newsreader Naga Munchetty also spent time in the make-up artist’s chair while prepping for her take.

And Olympian Greg Rutherford, who was one of the last contestants to be revealed, was seen excitedly checking out the social media reaction following his unveiling.

US pop star Anastacia was treated to a glittering green eyeshadow as she prepared for the promo clip ahead of the new series, which kicks off on September 3 with the Launch Show.

Meanwhile, sports presenter Ore Oduba shared a snap of himself holding a rather large coffee as he prepared for his first day at his new job.

And fans are still salivating over soap star Danny Mac’s saucy picture, which saw him show off his toned chest in a glittering, open-fronted dancing suit.

The other stars taking part in this year’s Strictly are pop star Will Young, DJ and presenter Melvin Odoom, former Eternal singer Louise Redknapp, EastEnders actress Tameka Empson, Birds Of A Feather’s Lesley Joseph and reality TV’s Judge Rinder.

Strictly Come Dancing – The Launch Show will be broadcast on BBC One on Saturday September 3, as the 15 celebrity contestants will discover which professional dancer they will be paired with as their journey towards the famous Glitterball Trophy begins