Len Goodman has died aged 78 (Picture:BBC)

Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman has died at the age of 78 after a short illness.

The beloved ballroom professional had been in a hospice in Tunbridge Wells in Kent following a short illness. He passed away on Saturday night.

A spokeswoman for Len told MailOnline: ‘I can confirm he died peacefully over the weekend surrounded by his family.’  

The former head judge has died aged 78.