Bombshell news as Uncle Len Goodman unveils his plan to leave Strictly Come Dancing at the end of the next series.

Of course, Len is not just a judge, he’s the head judge. His casting vote role is integral to the structure of the show. So it’s not a just a case of replacing any old panellist. The producers need to find someone to be the new top dog.

Naturally, the Beeb won’t be making a decision any time soon. Speculation over who will be the next Len will generate free publicity on an epic scale. Two months before the series even starts Strictly is already winning its annual publicity war with The X Factor. Clever.

But in the end an appointment will have to be made. So who’s in the frame? Perfectly suited to play the pantomime villain, Craig Revel Horwood is surely too much of a performer to take charge. Ditto comedy class clown Bruno Tonioli.

So will Darcey Bussell be promoted? With her impeccable pedigree as a world renowned former ballerina, she has the knowledge and the authority to pull it off. And bringing in anyone else as the boss might seem a little unfair.

But – whisper it quietly – there is one person who could be parachuted in without ruffling too many feathers. Step forward the one and only Arlene Phillips, the pioneering Strictly expert who was ruthlessly sacked six years ago for reasons that were never explained.

If Arlene returned to the fray there would be no complaints from her old friends Craig and Bruno. And Darcey would doubtless be happy to carry on as the glamourous one everybody loves. So Arlene may be the solution. If she wants it.

When Brucie quit as the host, new presenting duo Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman accession to the throne was seamless. Not a viewer was lost.

But Goodman’s departure will in many ways cause far bigger problems. Apart from losing its wise-cracking headmaster there’s the popular Len’s Lens slot to consider. Not to mention the venerable Cockney’s towering genial presence. No one says “SEVEN” like Len.

At 72, he has decided to throw in the towel. This follows his resignation from America’s Dancing With The Stars last year. Len is slowing down. But he will be sorely missed. He was not only the voice of Strictly, he was its heart and soul.

So, aside from Arlene, are there any other strong candidates for Len’s job? Do you have any ideas? If so, name them and explain why.