The 33-year-old professional dancer announced in June she had undergone a mastectomy after discovering she had stage three breast cancer - and was unable to have a celebrity partner this year.

During Saturday night's programme, Claudia Winkleman had revealed that "a very special member of our Strictly family" was appearing to read the terms and conditions.

"We have missed her so much and are delighted that she is well enough to be back with us tonight, please welcome the one and only Amy Dowden," the presenter said.

Dowden then delighted audiences in the studio and at home when she entered from behind a golden fringe wall - sporting a shaved head and a white glittery dress.

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The cast were cheering "Amy" following her surprise appearance - and Dowden replied "I've missed you all".

She added: "I'm doing really well, I'm over halfway through treatment, through chemo, and I can't wait to be back with you all permanently."

Co-presenter Tess Daly said: "So lovely to see you Amy, we love you to bits."

Dowden revealed in August that she had contracted sepsis after her first round of chemotherapy.