Professional dancer Kevin Clifton has announced he is leaving Strictly Come Dancing after seven years on the show.
The star took to Twitter to share the news with fans, revealing he was leaving the show to focus on other aspects of his career.
In the statement, Kevin wrote: "The past seven years have been some of the most wonderful of my life. I am grateful to the BBC and Strictly Come Dancing for giving me the opportunity to have been part of something truly special."
Kevin went on to tell fans he wanted to leave the show "on a high" after winning the Glitterball with celebrity Stacey Dooley in 2018, finishing the last series with the Children In Need trophy and taking part in the Christmas Special.
Kevin thanked his fellow professional dancers and the celebrities he's been partnered up with over the years, as well as the fans who have supported and voted for him while on the show.
Kevin said he is excited to continue watching the show as a fan and to cheer on his pro friends.
Speaking about his departure, a BBS spokesperson said: "Kevin has been such a brilliant part of Strictly for the past seven years. From reaching the final an impressive five times, to lifting the Glitterball with Stacey Dooley in 2018, he has provided the show with some fantastic moments, through his exceptional talent as a dancer and choreographer.
"He will be hugely missed by fans and by his Strictly family. He will always be our Kevin from Grimsby."
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