Strictly Come Dancing stars boozed the night away for Gemma Atkinson’s birthday — with some staying up until 6.30am in Blackpool

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.”

Ex-Emmerdale actress Gemma, who turned 33 on Thursday, left the hotel by a back door to try to avoid photographers.

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.”