Amy Dowden issues dancing update after pulling out of BBC's Strictly

Amy Dowden has shared an update on when she plans to return the the dancefloor, after a health issue caused her to take a step back from the remaining episodes of 2024's Strictly Come Dancing.

The professional dancer announced her depature from the BBC show after suffering an "insufficiency stress fracture" on her shin two weeks ago. She emotionally admitted to having "bad luck" having missed out on the show last year while undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

Amy was initially diagnosed with stage three breast cancer aged 32 in May 2023, after finding a lump in her breast the day before she went on her honeymoon. In February, Amy revealed that tests showed she has "no evidence of disease".

However, she has since confirmed that her current injury is not related to previous health issues. Amy shared that she needs rest but would love to get back to work as soon as she can.

Speaking to the 34-year-old star said: "The doctor is saying I could be back dancing by the end of November so that's what is keeping me going.

"I am focusing on that, focusing on getting back on the dancefloor with Carlos and coming to Wales for our tour in Cardiff."

Amy will be joined by fellow Strictly professional Carlos Gu as they kick off their Reborn UK tour in March next year.

The dancer had been performing on this year's Strictly while paired up with JLS singer . Lauren Oakley has since stepped in to take the place of Amy in the competition, so that JB can continue.

The new pairing performed a couple's choice to a Bruno Mars medley for icons week, earning JB his first tens of the series and an impressive 39 points.

Praising the new dance partners, Amy said: "I knew he would do well. I saved a lot of dances for the back end of the series which I knew would suit him and his style of dance."

On Thursday's It Takes Two, JB revealed that he had included a secret message to Amy in his dance, which was highlighted by host Janette Manrara.

A video clip from the dance showed JB mouthing: "For you Amy, for you Amy!" to the camera after the routine, leaving Janette visibly moved.