STRICTLY’S cast boozed the night away to celebrate Gemma Atkinson’s birthday after Saturday’s show — with some drinking until 6.30am.
Bosses wanted to avoid a repeat of last year when stars had a night out in Blackpool and Gorka Marquez lost four teeth after being punched.
So they kept the bar open at the Big Blue Hotel until the early hours instead.
A Strictly insider said: “There was a huge buzz and loads of excitement at the after-party.
“All the judges were there and Graham Norton hung about for a bit after watching the show.
"The cast were celebrating Gemma’s and Janette Manrara’s birthdays, so it was definitely a late one.”
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The source added: “She was one of the late revellers, so it’s not surprising she wanted to avoid having her picture taken.”
And host Claudia Winkleman, 45, added: “I’ve had a bit of a late night, please don’t take any pictures. I look a mess!”
Head judge Shirley Ballas, 57, told The Sun: “I was one of the well behaved ones.
"I was in bed by half one.”
Gemma Atkinson and Aljaž Škorjanec dance the American Smooth Foxtrot on Strictly Come Dancing