Strictly Come Dancing's Amy Dowden supported after heartbreaking admission as fans spot her in crowd

Amy Dowden issued a proud message as JB Gill progressed to the next round of Strictly Come Dancing. The Welsh dancer was partnered with the JLS singer in this year's race for the glitterball.

However, the 34-year-old was forced to pull out of the competition after she suffered a foot injury. Amy has since been replaced by fellow dancer, Lauren Oakley, who performed a Charleston with JB on Saturday's show.

The two finished joint top of the leaderboard as they came out victorious in the Samba-thon to end the episode. Fans were thrilled as they spotted Amy in the crowd supporting JB and Lauren as they sailed through to Musicals Week.

Amy was delighted at their progress but heartbreakingly admitted she would love to still be able to perform this season. She told her Instagram followers: "So PROUD of you @jbgil.

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She added: "Would do anything in the world to be out there on the floor with you but you are shining and everyone is seeing your talent! Thank you."

Lauren took to the comments and issued a heartfelt message to Amy as she said: "Love you!" JB added: "Soooo good to see you! Thank you for your support always."

Followers also heaped praise on Amy as they look forward to see her returning to the dancefloor in the future. Cariad said: "It made me SO happy to see you in the Clauditorium last night. I screamed with excitement when I saw you! JB did amazing last night!! Saturday nights don't feel the same now that you aren't dancing :( but hope you're recovering well."

Claire commented: "I really feel for Amy she has been through so much and would love to be on that dance floor. It was lovely to see her last night on the show. "

Lesley posted: "That was amazing JB and Lauren. We were all clapping and tapping our feet here! So lovely to see you Amy, gorgeous in pink!"

Amy has suffered many health issues over recent years as she was forced to miss last season as she was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2023. She underwent a mastectomy and fertility treatment.

She regularly keeps fans updated with her health journey and took to Instagram earlier this year to reflect on her health battle a year on from her diagnosis. She said in May: "These past few weeks and especially days I’ve constantly been thinking this time last year I was having this test, or this appointment.

"A year ago today it was confirmed what we thought it was but it became reality and my life changed forever when the Dr said we are sorry Amy it’s cancer.

"I can’t believe it’s been a year and all what my body has been through and achieved. A year ago Ben, myself and my twin sister cried together and had to pull ourselves together as we had to break the news to my parents and just knowing the heartache and worry it was going to cause.

"I used to lay awake for hours with my mind going to all sorts of places, would I make it to Christmas, would I dance again, how’s Ben going to cope, I don’t want to lose my hair , you name it. I wish I knew then how I would be a year on.

"I told myself constantly this too shall pass and a year on, my hair growing back, my energy getting better and better, back dancing and most importantly spending time with my family and friends and appreciating life.

"I have a new body I'm still learning to accept and like, but do you know what it got me through the hardest time and I’m so proud of myself. Too many people are affected by cancer and I’ll do all I can now to raise awareness and give back. To those struggling right now I’m sending you love and strength.

"To those family and friends who stuck by me I’m forever grateful to you! I know I’m lucky and blessed for another shot at life, here’s to a healthier, better, happier and dancing year ahead! …. Now a gentle reminder have you checked your chest this month? Early detection can save lives."

Amy was also rushed to hospital earlier this season as she collapsed after performing on an episode. A spokesperson for the dancer confirmed to BBC news: "Amy was feeling unwell and so an ambulance was called as a precaution.

"She is feeling much better and would like to thank the Strictly family for their love and concern." They added: "We request Amy's privacy in matters of health is kindly respected."