BBC Strictly pro flooded with support as they issue 'breaking news' just hours before show

star Nadiya Bychokova shared a "breaking news" announcement with her followers just hours before taking to the famous ballroom.

Posing in a slinky sequinned dress in a series of glamorous snaps, as she said: "BREAKING NEWS.

"I can't believe it but I've broken my thumb rehearsing for Strictly this week. It was a complete accident and the team have been looking after me but it is huge, purple and really painful.

"I love dancing but you do need to be tough sometimes. I'm still fine to be part of the show and I can't wait for tonight. I'll be the one stood behind Claudia, looking fabulous, with a massive thumb."

The dancer was soon inundated with messages of support, as her former dance partner Dan Walker penned: "Sorry to hear that partner. I hope it heals nice and quickly."

One fan said: "Get better soon, we'll miss your beautiful dancing!" and another agreed: "No thumbs up to that!! Hope it heals quickly."

A third chimed in: "Sorry to hear this nadia! Hope your thumb gets better very soon! Looking gorgeous as always."

A fourth said: "Broken toes, broken thumbs...you are well and truly unstoppable (and so so very beautiful)." A fifth agreed: "Ouch. Hope it heals quickly...these pics are stunning."

The Sun reported on Nadiya's accident earlier in the week, with an insider saying: "Nadiya was training with the other pros when she fell. Her thumb basically snapped and it looked incredibly painful.

"Everyone crowded around her. Nadiya's thumb was badly swollen and bruised, but she doesn't want to let anyone down and is adamant she can do the pre-recorded number.

"A doctor eventually cleared her and she'll be able to film, but might be treated with kid gloves by fellow pros."