Dr Hilary struck off the ice

The GMTV medic, 56, went up against Coronation Street actor Danny Young in the skate-off after the public support was added to judges scores in the Valentine's Day edition of the show.

But the final decision rested with the panel of experts, who opted to save Jones' younger rival after watching the two celebrities perform for a second time.

Dressed in a glittery white shirt, Jones - who performed a routine to Higher Love for the romance-themed evening - said he had enjoyed himself but predicted his run on the programme was at an end.

"That felt lovely," he said on Sunday night after the skate-off. "It felt really good.

"To be honest I think my time has come this evening.

"The standard of the competition this year is so very, very high."

In rehearsals, the GP was given special lessons to help him clap in time but he continued to struggle with rhythm and dance moves.

Despite voting Jones off the show, the judges praised his progress, with Nicky Slater saying it was a "really commendable effort".

Emma Bunton added: "You have done wonderful things. You should be so proud of yourself."

Amid screams and cheers from the audience, a smiling Jones said the experience had been "terrific fun".

Pledging to keep on skating, he added: "It's the right decision."

Earlier in the show, Bunton said she "adored" Jones but added: "I think you have done wonderful things. But I don't think the competition can really start while you are still here."

Slater likened the doctor's moves to EastEnders actor and former Dancing on Ice favourite Todd Carty, pointing out the "comedic quality" of his performances.

With hearts and love songs dominating the show, actress Hayley Tamaddon finished top of the table after a routine to Endless Love.

She received 26 points from the judges - the highest score so far in this series.

A tearful Karen Barber said: "It was so emotional to watch that. Beautiful."

Guest judge Michael Ball, who stood in while Robin Cousins was working on the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, added: "It was utterly beautiful and so perfect."

Even sharp-tongued Jason Gardiner lavished compliments on Tamaddon, describing her performance as "sublime".

But he kept up his criticism of swimmer Sharron Davies, saying she was too "mechanical".

"It's almost like watching an android," he said.

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