Strictly Come Dancing's Ellie Leach 'honoured' as she takes on new role in 'youngest ever' move after loss

Strictly Come Dancing star Ellie Leach has said she's 'honoured' as she was revealed to be taking on a new role. The actress, who is currently wowing viewers of the BBC One show, has agreed to become Willow Wood Hospice's youngest ever patron.

The 22-year-old local, who is known for appearing in Coronation Street, is already a friend of the Hospice, where her grandad sadly passed away, and she has also supported some of Willow Wood's events in the past.

Ellie, who played Faye Windass in the ITV soap for 12 years until she left earlier this year, also has connections to Tameside, where the Hospice is based, as she was born in Audenshaw and is a past pupil of Fairfield High School For Girls in Droylsden.

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Speaking of her new role, in which she will help alongside other patrons to raise valuable funds for Willow Wood's work as well as generate awareness of its achievements and campaigns. Ellie said: "I am absolutely honoured to become a patron for Willow Wood.

"I am in awe of the work that the Hospice does and would love to be a part of it." Philip Millson, Chair and Trustee of Willow Wood Hospice, also commented: "We are absolutely delighted that Ellie has agreed to come on board as a patron and be associated with the Hospice. She is well known to so many people and will be a fantastic ambassador for Willow Wood."

Sam Duncan, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Willow Wood Hospice, added: "Ellie is an absolute superstar and a fabulous role model for young people. She is passionate about hospice care and is very keen to be involved. We