STEFAN DENNIS WITHDRAWS FROM STRICTLY COME DANCING DUE TO INJURY

Stefan Dennis has withdrawn from Strictly Come Dancing due to injury.

Stefan Dennis says: "This morning I woke up to the most disappointing day of the time in my Strictly journey. Just when I had finally gained the confidence to do well with my dancing in the comp and achieve more great dances along the way, I was told that on Saturday I had torn my calf so significantly that I am now forced to withdraw from the show.

"I can’t tell you how devastated I am to have to leave so prematurely especially, as there has been, and still is, so much love and support from everyone for both Dianne and myself. I owe both the Strictly Family and Dianne a massive debt of gratitude for giving me the opportunity to fulfil my dream of being able to dance with my wife. (When my leg is better). Fun fact for all the avid Neighbours fans... it’s the same leg!”

Sarah James, Executive Producer, BBC Studios says: “We've adored having Stefan on Strictly Come Dancing, and are heartbroken that his Strictly journey - and his fantastic partnership with Dianne Buswell - has been cut short. It's been a joy to see him embrace the series with such enthusiasm and we really hope that, once better, he will keep dancing."

Strictly Come Dancing continues this Saturday on BBC One and iPlayer.