Shirley Ballas has paid tribute to her mother in a moving Instagram post to celebrate her 86th birthday.

The Strictly judge and Good Housekeeping's October cover star shared a series of images of her mum Audrey alongside a lengthy caption, where she thanked her for her ongoing support.

"Where shall I start..." Shirley wrote. "A huge Happy 86th Birthday to my beautiful mum. ❤️ oh my how she has aged gracefully. The most hard working mother in my eyes who has taught me so many lessons through my life. I feel blessed to be with her on a daily basis.

"Mum, I just couldn’t have done anything in my life without your support. I wouldn’t be where I am today without you. You are kind, caring, loving, generous and always there for me through the good and the bad times. You always seeing the glass half full when I don’t even see the glass.

"These past weeks you have been sooo poorly yet you still keep going never complaining or moaning. As I type this you’re busy in the kitchen making a casserole lol.

"You are my hero and a true inspiration of someone who JUST GETS ON WITH IT.

"Oh how I love you to the moon and back and I’m so very very proud to call you my mum. My queen. ❤️ Xxx"

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The post comes a few weeks after Shirley's mum surprised her daughter during an appearance on BBC Breakfast. An Instagram video shared by Shirley shows she was in complete shock to see Audrey join her on the sofa to congratulate her on completing her recent Skyathlon challenge.

With Strictly now back on our screens, we're sure Audrey will be Shirley's biggest cheerleader on a Saturday night.