Emmerdale's Lisa Riley says 'forever my angel' after heartbreaking show tribute to late Strictly Come Dancing star

Emmerdale star Lisa Riley has paid tribute to her late friend and Strictly Come Dancing star after hosting a show in his honour. The actress took to the stage in London's West End as a night of dance was put on for Robin Windsor.

The dancer tragically died earlier this year, aged 44. His death was confirmed by Sisco Entertainment, which represented him in various areas of theatre and corporate entertainment, in February. Robin joined Strictly 2010 and in his first year, he was paired with EastEnders star Patsy Kensit. But he had to leave four years later due to an injury.

The closest he got to winning was coming in fifth place with actress Lisa, who is famed for playing Emmerdale's Mandy Dingle, in 2012, with the popular pairing finishing in 5th place before remaining great friends in the years that followed.

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Months on from his passing on Sunday evening (November 3), a West End show celebrated Robin’s life. Called ‘Robin Windsor The Final Act’, it was organised by Pasha Kovalev and Anya Garnis with the permission of Windsor's family and all profits from ticket sales went to mental health charity SANE.

The show was hosted by Lisa and Strictly judge Anton Du Beke and featured performances from the latter as well as fellow Strictly stars Janette Manrara, Aljaz Skorjanec and Lauren Oakely.

Introducing the show at London's Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Anton compared Robin to the shimmering Strictly Glitterball trophy, with Lisa adding she hoped the dancer would "shine down on us all and keep shining in heaven".

Other stars to appear in the show included singer and actor Marisha Wallace, professional dancers Joanne Clifton and Vincent Simone, and singer Lance Ellington as well as an appearance from former Strictly contestant Deborah Meaden, who was partnered with Robin in 2013.

Following the show, Lisa reflected on the night as she remembered her much-loved friend. Alongside a black and white photo of Robin, she wrote on Instagram: "@robinwindsor ……Love you, Miss you, Forever my Angel. To everyone who made last night happen, especially @anyagarnis @pashakovalev @mrantondubeke @strictlytheatreco thank you."

Strictly star Lauren, who spent time living with Robin prior to his death, was quick to respond to the post, writing: "Well done. We all came together for our angel! You were sensational."