Strictly Come Dancing star Neil Jones

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Strictly Come Dancing star Neil Jones(Image: BBC)

Neil Jones has been flooded with support from his Strictly Come Dancing co-stars and fans as he announced the heartbreaking loss of his father.

The professional dancer has been part of the hit BBC One dance show since 2016, joining alongside his then-wife, fellow pro Katya Jones.

But during the course of his competitive career, he earned 45 dance championship titles, including eight times British National, eight times Dutch National, European and four times World Latin Champion.

As this year’s run of Strictly continues, Neil, who is competing with a partner this year, took to social media to confirm he’d suffered the devastating death of his dad.

Sharing a string of black and white photos of his father the 43-year-old wrote on Thursday (November 13): “Yesterday I said goodbye to my Dad for the final time.

“I thought I knew my dad but yesterday I realised I didn’t after hearing so many lovely & funny stories from family and his closest friends, I know he would be smiling looking down with a pint in his hand. Thank you Wendy and everyone for making it such a special day. RIP DAD.”

His Strictly co-stars were among the first to respond, with Gorka Marquez commenting: “Sending love Neil.” Amy Dowden typed: “Love you my friend.” Nancy Xu said: “Sending you lots of love.”

Dianne Buswell shared: “Jonsey sending you so much love.” Karen Hauer echoed: “Sending all our love Neil.” Former Strictly pro Ola Jordan wrote “So sorry to hear this Neil. Sending you lots of love xxx,” as husband James echoed: “Mate, I’m so so sorry for your loss – sending love.”

Strictly winner Ellie Leach commented: “Sending lots of love Neil.” Good Morning Britain’s Ranvir Singh shared: “Oh I’m so sorry Neil god bless.” Waterloo Road actress Tillie Amartey added: “Oh Neil my friend my mentor I am sending you an abundance of Love and strength to you and your family love Tills xxxx.”

During his decade on Strictly, Neil has competed with three partners. In 2019, he danced with former footballer-turned-presenter Alex Scott and finished in fifth place. In 2021, he was paired with EastEnders star Nina Wadia, but they were the first couple to be eliminated.

Last year, Neil was partnered with Tonya Willcox, and they were eliminated in week three. This year, he has returned as a professional dancer, but does not have a celebrity partner