Amanda Abbington vows to 'stand up to bullies' after Strictly row with Giovanni Pernice

has revealed she is to become an ambassador for the National Bullying Helpline after her ordeal on .

The star quit the talent show last year saying she was picked on by dance partner – and now wants to use her experience to help others.

She said last night: “Having been bullied several times in my life, I appreciate just how important it is to stand up to bullies. I now want to turn past negative experiences into positive ones.”

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Amanda, 50, made 17 complaints to the about Giovanni, 34, accusing him of “cruel and mean” behaviour. He refuted the claims. But a BBC investigation found he had breached its anti-bullying and harassment policy in six of Amanda’s complaints.

Speaking about her charity role, the actress said: “I would like to help raise awareness to ensure those traumatised due to abuse know exactly where to go in order to seek help. I’m excited about becoming an ambassador for The National Bullying Helpline. They do amazing work.”

Founder Christine Pratt said: “We are delighted to welcome Amanda. She has a strength of character and... personal insight that we embrace with open arms.”

• Call the charity on 0300 323 0169 or visit nationalbullyinghelpline.co.uk

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