Strictly's Amy Dowden sends public message to JB and Lauren and reveals their childhood connection

Strictly Come Dancing star Amy Dowden has sent a heartwarming public message to JB Gill and Lauren Oakley as they prepare to take to the dance floor tonight. The Welsh professional dancer will miss out on this week's show due to illness.

Her celebrity partner JB has been paired with Lauren Oakley for icons week on the BBC show while Amy recovers. JB and Lauren will be performing a couple's choice dance tonight as they pay tribute to Bruno Mars.

Amy revealed how supportive JB had been in her message, and what a big fan of Lauren she is. Amy, 34, wrote: "Wishing these two the absolute best of luck tonight! I'm going to be your biggest cheerleader!

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"@jbgill it says everything how you've been able to adapt to a new professional, produce such a great number ( so excited for everyone to see) whilst supporting me! I'm so lucky! You're a STAR! I know what tonight means to you! Thank you! ".

"@laurenmayoakley thank you, I knew Jay would be in safe hands and have a fabulous time with you! You know I've always adored your dancing since I ran up to you in Blackpool tower at eight years old to tell you! Thank you darling!"

Amy was forced to rest up after she collapsed following last week's live show. The star was taken to hospital as a precaution, according to her representative.

Amy, who only returned to Strictly Come Dancing this year full-time after being given the all-clear from breast cancer, returned to TV last night in an appearance on Strictly spin-off It Takes Two.

She gave fans an update as she said she was feeling 'so much better'. The star also thanked all of the fans for showing her so much love and support.

Strictly Come Dancing airs tonight at 6.30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.