The leader of a club for deaf people has praised Strictly Come Dancing winner Rose Ayling-Ellis as "a great role model".

Asif Iqbal, president of Harrow and Brent United Deaf Club, met Rose two years ago while she was filming EastEnders.

He said they both share a passion for raising awareness, promoting access and breaking down the barriers that deaf people face in everyday life.

Mr Iqbal added: "Rose's success has had a huge impact on residents - deaf, hearing, young and old.

"Her inspirational journey has shown that deaf people can be successful if society removes the barriers of inaccessibility. It shows that Deaf people can achieve their dreams, no matter how big, as long as they have the right support, encouragement, access and the barriers that are so often put in their way by society are removed."

Mr Iqbal called on Harrow Council to provide BSL Interpretation for deaf residents at their council meetings, deaf awareness to their staff and promote inclusivity and access for their deaf and hard of hearing residents.

Harrow and Brent United Deaf Club will be reopening at Victoria Hall on Friday February 4 at 6pm.