Dancing on Ice star Dame Sarah Storey has stepped down from the show due to a painful injury.
The athlete took to social media to share pictures of her leg in a cast after fracturing her ankle, just weeks before the show is due to start, reports the Mirror.
She wrote: “Absolutely gutted to have my Dancing on Ice training interrupted in this way – just as my first routine with @slongchambon was really coming together!
“An awkward stumble and fall with my left foot stuck on the ice sadly led to me fracturing my left ankle. I’m so fortunate that both Sylvain and Coach @stephenpickavance were by my side and knew exactly what to do and that the medical backup for the show is truly world class.
Sarah, who has won multiple gold medals in the Paralympic games continued: “Whilst I can’t wear my left skating boot in time to take to the ice in January, I’m working with the team at ITV to come up with a plan for what’s next and I’ll always be the biggest cheerleader of the awesome group that is the Class of 2025.
“In the meantime I’ll be fully focused on all the strength and mobility work I need to do to get back to full power and of course back to my bike ahead of next season! My career has seen so many ups and downs with injury and illness, plus returning after two babies, which means I’m well equipped for another comeback.
“Thankfully the surgeon said I have strong bones so otherwise it could have been a lot worse. I’m so grateful to have had the chance to start learning to skate with the most awesome people (see pics 4-7). I couldn’t have asked for a better professional partner and coaching team around me. So for now my plans might be interrupted….. but you better believe there’s more news to come!”
Her dance partner, Sylvain Longchambon, commented: “Ah Sarah it’s such a shame and the routine was coming on really well! You’re one of the most focused and hard working person I’ve met and you can be proud of what you’ve achieved.
“It was a pleasure to be your skating partner for a (too) short period, keep your head up and best of luck for your healing and rehab process, you’re an absolute trooper. À bientôt.”
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Corrie star Samia Longchambon, who is married to Sylvain wrote: “SO gutted for you Sarah.. you are so strong and brave!! sending big hugs.”
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