Wynne Evans reveals wellness ritual that aids mental health after Strictly axe

Former Strictly star Wynne Evans has revealed the ritual that is helping him manage his mental health following his exit from the Strictly live tour and BBC Radio Wales show. The 53 year old posted a photo to Instagram of himself immersed in a lake as he took part in a cold water swim. He wrote: "I find cold water swimming helps with my mental health. Please look after each other."

Fans were quick to send supportive messages in the comments, with one writing: "Hope you are doing well Wynne. Big hugs," while another joked: "Brrrr but well done. Doesn't look like Llansteffan!" The post marks the first time the Go Compare advert star has publicly spoken about his wellbeing since being axed from his broadcasting and touring commitments earlier this year.

Evans' departure took place alongside an ongoing BBC investigation into allegations of him behaving inappropriately during the Strictly tour.

He is reported to have made a sexual comment about co-star Janette Manrara during the tour launch in January. The BBC later confirmed that Evans had been issued a warning and that he would be taking time out to "prioritise his wellbeing".

In a statement released at the time, the father of two said: "I've agreed with the BBC that I'll take some time out from my radio show and the Strictly Live tour, as well as my other public commitments, to prioritise my wellbeing. I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused, and plan to take this time for self-reflection."

A source close to the singer told The Sun that a planned meeting with the BBC to discuss his future has now been postponed.

They said: "Wynne was ready to fight, but in recent weeks he has been struggling mentally. The stress of what has happened to his reputation has been weighing heavily on his mind. The decision has been made to postpone the meeting by a couple of weeks to allow Wynne time to get his head straight."

In February, an insider told the Mirror: "The BBC very much want to pull up the floorboards and have a good look around, and see if there is anything to answer about beyond the spit roast comment. They are planning to sit Wynne down and have a frank conversation with him about his conduct.

"The meeting is currently scheduled for the start of next week but they are well aware that Wynne is really struggling with everything, and his welfare comes first, so will give him as much time as he needs."

Cold water swimming has been increasingly recognised for the mental health benefits it offers. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution has credited the sport with reducing stress, improving circulation, and giving swimmers a natural sense of euphoria. Evans seems to have turned to this activity for some support during this turbulent time in his life.