Tom Fletcher and Strictly Come Dancing partner both test positive for Covid
McFly's Tom Fletcher and his Strictly dance partner Amy Dowden have tested positive for coronavirus, ITV News Correspondent Geraint Vincent reports
Tom Fletcher and his Strictly Come Dancing partner Amy Dowden have tested positive for Covid-19 just one day after their dancefloor debut, the BBC has said.
The McFly star and professional dancer Dowden contracted the virus on Sunday afternoon and are now self-isolating, the broadcaster said in an announcement.
Their positive test results mean they won't be able to practice together for 10 days and will have to miss next Saturday's live show as they self-isolate.
The BBC said in a statement: “Tom Fletcher and Amy Dowden have tested positive for Covid-19.
“The pair are now self-isolating separately following the latest Government guidelines.
“While they will both miss Saturday’s live show, Strictly Come Dancing protocols mean that, all being well, they will return the following week.”
Fletcher made his debut on Saturday night with Dowden, dancing the cha cha cha to September by Earth Wind and Fire, on the first live show of the new series.
McFly posted a message on Instagram on Sunday afternoon saying their bandmate was "unwell and won't be on stage with us tonight in Glasgow" for a gig at The SSE Hydro arena.
The group later confirmed the news in a second post, writing: "Further to our last message we can now confirm that Tom has tested positive for Covid-19.
"He is now self isolating and following the latest government guidelines. Please join us in wishing him a speedy recovery."
The announcement follows reports that three of the show's dancers were unvaccinated - though there is no suggestion that either Fletcher or Dowden were among this group.
Dowden said she was vaccinated on February 4 in an Instagram post.
The professional dancer said she was not suffering with any symptoms.
Dowden wrote on Instagram on Sunday: "Unfortunately Tom and I have tested positive for Covid-19.
"I'm not suffering any symptoms but am now isolating at home.
"I have no doubt that over the next 10 days my mind will be going crazy with choreography ideas ready to get back on the Strictly dance floor for the live show in week 3.
"Thank you for all of the support and good luck to all of the couples this week. I will be cheering you all on."
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