Wynne Evans is being consoled by his girlfriend Liz (Image: wynneevans/Instagram)

Wynne Evans’ girlfriend Liz Brookes is ralling around the star after his axe – despite reports they’d split up

Strictly star Wynne Evans is being consoled by his girlfriend who is standing by him.

Liz Brookes is helping Wynne through a “ very tough period” in the wake of him being axed from the Strictly tour. Despite reports saying they had split up, sources say they are actually still together – and she is “massively” supporting him

Evans, 53, started dating events manager Brookes, 50, in the spring of last year after the break up of his marriage. A source said: “Everyone is rallying around Wynne – Liz included. It’s a very testing time and he is appreciative of all the love and support he is getting.”

The Mirror told yesterday how Evans was fearing for his career , with pals admitting: “He’s in a bad way.” But his circle was rallying around the star, who was filmed making a lewd joke.

Under fire: Wynne Evans after tour axe ( Image: Mancpicss66)

A friend said: “He has been a bit of an oaf and made a stupid mistake but does he deserve such hatred? He is a joker and he wants to play to the crowd.” Wynne was caught on camera using the term “spitroast” as part of a Strictly photocall with actor Jamie Borthwick, 30, and pro dancer Katya Jones, 35.

The pal added: “Jamie is his mate and he was laughing and joking, and Katya plays along with the joke too. “It’s just schoolboy comedy. He is more Jim Davidson than Peter Kay, and if anything, is more guilty of having a terrible sense of humour.”

The pal added: “Talk of his career ending is premature – at the end of the day, his radio show is very popular, and he is very much liked.Everyone hopes he can see the light at the end of the tunnel.”

BBC bosses had initially let Evans off with a warning but caved in as anger grew by axing him from the live dates. Apologising for his behaviour, the opera singer 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.

The live tour has been thrown into chaos ( Image: Getty Images)“I am deeply sorry for the pain my inappropriate actions have caused. Apologies to those I won’t get to see at the remaining performances and I’m grateful to my fellow tour gang for all the support they have given me.”

The vulgar remark was allegedly directed towards dancer and presenter Janette Manrara, 41. Wynne initially said: “My language was ­inappropriate and unacceptable for which I sincerely ­apologise.”

Bosses had hoped that would draw a line under the matter. But it did not relieve any of the pressure and they finally ditched him from the tour.