Why Amy Dowden is not on BBC Strictly Come Dancing this week and when she could return

Strictly’s Amy Dowden will not be dancing with partner JB Gill this week, following a health scare last weekend that saw her taken to hospital.

Amy began to feel unwell after her performance with JLS band member JB and was rushed to hospital during the live show on Saturday night (26 October), missing Sunday's results show.

Although she is now said to be doing much better, representatives for the show decided that Strictly pro Lauren Oakley would take her place, with bosses 'hopeful' Amy will be back performing the following week.

READ MORE: Four Strictly Come Dancing stars 'at risk' named amid first Icons Week

Earlier this week JB spoke about how it’s been “surreal” training without his partner since she was taken to hospital.

He said: “We’ve been able to build an incredible rapport over the last six, seven weeks and it’s been great going to the training room with her and working on the new routine and, for me, learning different styles and then watching that process sort of as it builds into the show that we put on, on the Saturday night.

“So to not have her in rehearsals this week has been a bit surreal.

“But the best thing … is that she’s taken some time to get better. We’re obviously wishing her all the best as she recovers.”

Ahead of Saturday's show Amy took to social media to wish JB and Lauren luck. Writing in Instagram she said: “Wishing these two the absolute best of luck tonight. I’m going to be your biggest cheerleader.

“@jbgill it says everything how you’ve been able to adapt to a new professional, produce such a great number (so excited for everyone to see) whilst supporting me. I’m so lucky. You’re a star.

“I know what tonight means to you. Thank you. @laurenmayoakley thank you, I knew Jay would be in safe hands and have a fabulous time with you.

“You know I’ve always adored your dancing since I ran up to you in Blackpool Tower at eight years old to tell you. Thank you darling.

“@lizzie.gough you for choreographing such a brilliant routine! Love it. Thank you. Also a big thank you for all the love and support I’ve received this past week. So grateful and certainly helped. Now tune into the first ever Icons week on Strictly.”

Earlier this week Strictly Come Dancing bosses said they were hopefully Amy would return next week.

A spokesperson said: "She is delighted that fellow professional dancer, Lauren Oakley, is able to step in for rehearsals and to perform in Saturday’s show for JB Gill’s couple’s choice dance.”

They added: “We are all hopeful that Amy will be back to dance with JB next week."

The professional dancer, 34, made her return to Strictly this year following a battle with breast cancer. She has also opened up about her struggle with Chrohn's Disease in Strictly Amy: Crohn’s And Me, and said that meeting others helped her “accept” her own condition for the “first time ever”.