Ellie Simmonds tipped for Strictly Come Dancing 2017 cast

Ellie Simmonds is said to be a huge fan of Strictly Come Dancing Credit: PA wire

Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds is rumoured to be in talks with television executives over plans to appear in Strictly Come Dancing next year.

The five-time gold medallist from Walsall was reported to have been invited to watch a live taping of the show's semi-finals last weekend.

Bosses hope a possible appearance by the 22-year-old star would send a positive message about disability.

The BBC have pledged to increase onscreen diversity figures.

A source told the Mirror: They wanted to introduce her to the Strictly family and to get a feel for the place and the programme.

“By all accounts she had a fabulous time. It’s early days, but we would love her next year. She is our number one choice by a country mile.”

Miss Simmonds, who was awarded an OBE at age 14, is said to be a huge Strictly fan having appeared on the spin-off It Takes Two in 2011.