STRICTLY: GRAZIANO DI PRIMA DROPPED AS PRO DANCER BY BBC AFTER INVESTIGATION

The BBC have confirmed that Graziano Di Prima will no longer take part in this year's series of Strictly Come Dancing. The Sun reports it follows an internal investigation which found cases of "physical behaviour" towards his former dance partner Zara McDermott.

Graziano said: "I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly. My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime. Respecting the BBC HR process, I understand it's best for the show that I step away...

"While there are aspects of this story involving external influences that I can't discuss at this time, I remain committed to being strong for my family and friends.

"I wish the Strictly family and the BBC nothing but success in the future."

"I also want to thank everyone who has supported my career, both professionally and personally. When the time is right, I will share my story."

In a statement, the BBC said: "We can confirm that Graziano Di Prima is no longer a part of the line-up of professional dancers for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing...

"While we would never comment on individual cases, it is well-known that the BBC has established and robust duty of care procedures, and if issues are raised we will always take them seriously and act swiftly as appropriate."

Strictly Come Dancing returns this Autumn on BBC One.