BBC Strictly Come Dancing star shares heartbreaking photo of late Robin Windsor

Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Kristina Rihanoff has shared a poignant memory of her late colleague Robin Windsor.

Kristina, who previously partnered with Robin on tours across the UK, took to social media to share an emotional photograph of the pair taken last year.

In the touching image, a beaming Robin is seen dressed in a smart black tuxedo and bowtie next to Kristina, just weeks before his untimely death at the age of 44. Kristina, who departed from Strictly following the show's 13th series in 2015, poignantly captioned the post: "Last December... Last time [broken heart emoji]."

The tribute comes shortly after a special remembrance for Robin was broadcast on television. A recent episode dedicated to celebrating the 20th anniversary of Strictly Come Dancing included a heartfelt homage to past stars of the show, encompassing presenters, contestants, and dancers who have passed away.

During this commemorative segment, Robin was fondly remembered by colleagues and friends within the dance world, each sharing touching anecdotes and reflecting on his distinctive contribution. Lisa Riley from Emmerdale, who danced with Robin in the 2012 series, led the tributes with affectionate words. "Whoever's idea it was to put me and Robin Windsor together needs the biggest trophy, bigger than the Glitterball," she reminisced with love, reports the Mirror.

It Takes Two presenter Janette Manrara was full of fond memories when she quipped: "He honestly was Mr. Strictly. He was as camp as Christmas. More tanned than anyone I've ever seen before in my life. Didn't mind wearing sequins on any part of his body."

Business powerhouse Deborah Meaden recalled her time on the dancefloor, saying: "I did Strictly because I wanted to enjoy myself, and Robin understood that. And he was just the best partner."

Reminiscing about past joys, Lisa Riley shared a personal anecdote: "The best part of me and Robin was just at my house, two cups of tea, gossiping like two besties on the couch together, you know?" Meanwhile, professional dancer Aljaz Skorjanec paid his respects: "What a beautiful, beautiful friend, dancer, and just a kind man."

Visibly moved, Karen Hauer spoke of her colleague with warmth: "He always took care of us..." but then trailed off with emotion. Completing the heartfelt tribute, an emotional Lisa added: "I know full well he's up there now. He's dancing a foxtrot. I said it in the eulogy when I read it at his funeral. I said, 'One day, we'll dance that foxtrot again together.' And... I truly believe that."

Details about the circumstances of Robin's tragic passing remain murky, but it is believed his body was found in a London hotel room.

Following the heartbreaking news, Robin's bereaved family shared a moving message with The Mirror: "We would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and celebration of our beloved Robin. While we understand that there is a huge public and media interest around his passing, we as a family need time to process our shock and grief. We ask for the needs of our family and friends to be taken into consideration and for our privacy to be respected at this difficult time."