Bradford pop star Kimberley Walsh was looking forward to a quiet family Christmas after being pipped to the Strictly Come Dancing title by Olympic gymnast Louis Smith, said her mum yesterday.

The 30-year-old Girls Aloud singer reached the final of the BBC dancing competition which was watched by 14 million people on Saturday night.

Kimberley's mother Diane Walsh, of Sandy Lane, Bradford, was in the audience with other members of Kimberley's family, including sister Sally and boyfriend Justin Scott.

Diane said: “It was a brilliant final.

“It was so very close. Obviously we were hoping Kimberley would win but when Louis was announced as winner, Kimberley was absolutely fine – she was really pleased for him.”

Kimberley's fellow runner-up was TV presenter Denise Van Outen. Diane said: “I was glad it was Denise and Kimberley in the final because they've become really close.”

After Saturday night's final there was a post-show Strictly party thrown by the BBC, which Kimberley's family attended.

Now the singer is relaxing after a full-on 12-weeks of Strictly.

Diane said: “It's been a really intense three months for her and it will be nice for her to have some time to herself.”

As well as a gruelling training programme in place for Strictly with dance partner Pasha Kovalev, Kimberley has also been involved in the tenth anniversary reunion of her band Girls Aloud.

And it has been reported that her appearances on Strictly has seen her inundated with £1 million of deals, including plans for her to host a day-time chat show, after impressing TV bosses with her bubbly personality. She is also said to be in talks to make a fitness DVD.

Diana said: “Now Kimberley’s just having a quiet Christmas with her family.

“She was absolutely delighted with the support she’s received in Bradford and from the Telegraph & Argus, she was really pleased to hear everything that's been done to get people voting for her in Strictly.”

BBC1 controller Danny Cohen praised the show. He said: “Strictly has enjoyed an outstanding year, with dancing and entertainment of the highest quality. Darcey Bussell has been a tremendous addition to our wonderful judges, and there is a positive and warm energy about the show that families and people of all ages have enjoyed.

“Strictly’s warmth is at the heart of its success and I want to thank all those on and off screen for helping to make it such a brilliant series.”

Darcey has been confirmed to return for a second series after proving popular with viewers.

Saturday’s average audience is thought to be the highest since the Olympics closing ceremony in the summer.

Strictly’s record average high came in 2010 when 13 million watched Kara Tointon take the glitterball trophy.