Ayling-Ellis remains the favourite to win the competition. She and her professional partner, Giovanni Pernice, will reprise their Couple’s Choice routine, which included 10 seconds of silence to represent how the deaf community experience the world.

Widdrington said: @I’ve been absolutely honoured to get to dance with the incredible AJ Odudu for the last few months and although neither of us wanted our journey to end this way, AJ’s health and safety are by far the most important things.”

Sarah James, Strictly Come Dancing executive producer, added: “AJ may not be able to compete in the final but she is and always will be one of the most brilliant Strictly finalists we have ever had.  

“We cannot thank her enough for fully embracing the experience and being a total delight both on and off the dance floor. “