Robin Windsor pulls out of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’

Strictly Come Dancing

professional Robin Windsor has pulled out of the upcoming series.

The 34-year-old has been forced to withdraw due to a “pre-existing back injury”, and will be replaced by Australian dancer Trent Whiddon.

Speaking about his decision, Windsor said: “I’m devastated to have to pull out of Strictly this year due to a pre-existing back injury. It’s been a really difficult decision, but I plan to focus 100% on my recovery and hope to be back in the ballroom as soon as possible, doing what I love best.

“In the meantime, I wish the rest of the cast and crew the best of luck with the new series which I’ll be watching every week.”

The news comes just days after Windsor revealed that he had asked Strictly bosses to allow same-sex couples to compete on the popular Saturday night show – read more here.

Windsor thanked fans for their supportive messages on Twitter. Read below:

I have woken up this morning inundated with thousands of amazing messages. Thank you so much.
Love you all x

— Robin Windsor (@Robinwindsor) August 6, 2014

His exit from the new series follows the departures of Artem Chigvintsev and James Jordan – read more about their departures here.

Strictly Come Dancing is expected to return to BBC One for its twelfth series in September.