Actress Amanda Abbington has said it is "with the deepest regret" that she has had to leave Strictly Come Dancing.
During Monday night’s Strictly spin-off show, It Takes Two, it was confirmed she would be dropping out of the BBC One competition.
Her departure comes days after she pulled out of the live show on Saturday night "due to medical reasons".
Commenting on Instagram on Tuesday, she wrote: "It is with deepest regret that I had to leave Strictly. I did not come to this decision easily or lightly but for personal reasons I am unable to continue.
"It was an absolute joy working with my fellow contestants, they are a beautiful, hardworking and talented group of people who I love and who I will miss seeing every Friday and Saturday and competing alongside."
She continued, "I want to thank the incredible production team and everyone on Strictly who looked after me and who are so kind and caring.
"It’s a wonderful bunch of people and I’ll miss all of them. I’m so sad that I am unable to go any further.
"Thank you to everyone who voted and who sent wonderful messages and inspiring support. You are all amazing. Truly. Thank you. xxx"
Strictly Come Dancing has confirmed that the remainder of the series will continue as normal, with an elimination each week until the final – despite the departure of Abbington.
Abbington's departure was confirmed by It Takes Two presenter Fleur East on Monday. She read a statement which said: "Amanda Abbington is unable to continue in Strictly Come Dancing and has decided to withdraw from the competition.
"The show wishes her all the best for the future." A post on the show's Instagram also carried the same statement.
A compilation of Abbington's best moments on the dancing show was then played before East added: "Amanda, we are sending you all of our love."
Following her exit announcement, Pernice shared a picture of the pair wearing Christmas outfits on his Instagram.
The post read: "Amanda … I am so sad we can’t continue but I am proud of what we achieved and I am sending you so much love."
In her last appearance on the show, Abbington scored 31 for a quick-footed foxtrot to Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac, with judge Motsi Mabuse saying she enjoyed that the couple took the time to show the "beauty of the movement".
Source: Press Association
