BBC Strictly star Amy Dowden admits it's' tough' hours before calling medics for help

will miss this weekend's after a medical emergency has led the professional dancer who has battled breast cancer to take some time out of the competition.

She was taken to hospital during Saturday night's live show after collapsing backstage.

The Welsh dancer, 34, told of her struggles at competing on Strictly after returning from her cancer battle just hours before falling ill and medics were called.

In a recent interview, the performer admitted the standards were high this year after she and JLS singer JB Gill, 37, found themselves in the bottom two the week before.

Amy told The Mail: "It's very, very tough competition this year, as you can see with that leaderboard.

"The reality is now that there are ten couples left, and two of them will be in the dance-off each week. But, it's happened and we live to dance another day."

Her condition was so serious that emergency services were called and specialist equipment used to help keep her completely flat, according to reports.

In a statement, the dancer's spokesperson told BBC News: "Amy was feeling unwell and so an ambulance was called as a precaution. She is feeling much better and would like to thank the Strictly family for their love and concern."

They added: "We request Amy's privacy in matters of health is kindly respected."

During the show, Amy was taken to hospital after an ambulance was called to Elstree Studios in Borehamwood.

An East of England ambulance service spokesperson said: "We were called just after 21.00 BST on Saturday to attend a medical emergency at Elstree Studios in Borehamwood.

"An ambulance was sent to the scene. One patient, an adult female, was transported to Barnet hospital for further care."

Amy has been vocal about her recent health woes and revealed last year she caught sepsis while undergoing cancer treatment.