Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Pasha Kovalev has announced he won’t be returning to the show this year in a heartfelt social media statement.

Pasha took to Twitter this week (13 February) to announce last year’s Strictly was his final outing on the show's dance floor.

"After scoring 93 perfect tens, reaching 4 finals lifting 1 glitter ball, it's time for me to find a new challenge and so I've decided to make last year - my final season on Strictly.

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"I've had 8 fantastic years, full of wonderful memories, thanks to the incredible partners, professionals and myriad of behind the scenes teams who all work to make Strictly the amazing production that it is. The biggest thanks go to all the members of the public who've supported me so much over the years - I look forward to seeing you on the Strictly Pro-Tour this spring, and for many future adventures to come!"

Strictly responded to the news, saying: “Pasha, from all of us, thank you for your amazing choreography and routines over the years. You’ll be sorely missed.”

Pasha reached the Strictly final last year with Ashley Roberts and has previously lifted the glitter ball trophy with Caroline Flack in 2012.

Reacting to Pasha’s announcement, fans expressed their admiration for the dancer and wished him luck for the future.

This is the first news we’ve heard in regards to which Strictly professionals will or won’t be returning to the show this year – it’s expected we’ll hear more in the coming weeks and months.

Strictly Come Dancing will return to BBC One later this year.