Zoe Ball and DJ husband Norman Cook have been invited to the mayor's parlour if she wins Strictly Come Dancing on Saturday.

Brighton and Hove Mayor Bob Carden has joined The Argus's Vote Zoe campaign and called on everybody in the city to vote for her in return for all she has done for the area.

The Argus's campaign last week helped boost public support for TV presenter Zoe, who has dazzled audiences with her glamorous dresses and graceful performances with Latin American dance champion partner Ian Waite.

Tension is mounting in the lead-up to Saturday's final when they will be competing against cricketer Darren Gough and athlete Colin Jackson.

Coun Carden said he and Zoe launched cancer-screening equipment at a vet's surgery in Patcham a few months ago and she was "tremendous".

He said: "I didn't initially know who she was then but I certainly do now. She's a lovely lady and I would support her whole-heartedly.

"She's been doing a great job for this city - Patsy Palmer did her bit too - and I would ask Brighton and Hove to vote for her.

"The BBC filmed me outside the town hall supporting her in my full mayoral regalia at the beginning of the series but they didn't use it. I was unable to do my bit for her then so let's try and do our bit for her now.

"If she wins I will give her a reception at the mayor's parlour and Norman Cook is more than welcome to come along too. I'm right behind him as well because of all he's done for Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club. They have both done a lot for this city."

The Argus printed Vote Zoe posters urging readers to vote for her last week and ensure she made it to the final.

Zoe, who lives in Hove with Norman and son Woody, has stunned the judges and audience with breath-taking routines during the 12-week series.

She hung on two weeks ago when Brighton's Patsy Palmer was told she was out of the contest and again last Saturday when she beat chef James Martin.

Vote for Zoe and Ian to win by calling 0901 121 4012.