The former Olympic swimmer shared the news of the miscarriage on Instagram.

"I don't really have the words right now but unfortunately we went for our 20-week scan this week and they found no heartbeat," she wrote.

"I gave birth to our angel, Harper, on Friday at 7pm. We held her, and had time with her. We will forever love her and remember her always.

"I don't have the strength or words right now and don't feel ready to share this news. However, I can't pretend to be ok or fake a smile.

"I can't have people ask me how pregnancy is or when I am due as I still look pregnant. I don't have the strength to tell this news individually."

She thanked the staff at Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester, saying their "kindness and care was simply incredible".

To her husband, Andy, she said: "Your selfless support, love and help is truly amazing. I couldn't have survived without you."

"We are so truly heartbroken. Our beautiful girl. Rest in peace."

Adlington suffered a miscarriage at 12 weeks last year and emergency surgery left her fighting sepsis.

Adlington has two children - daughter Summer from her previous marriage to fellow swimmer Harry Needs, and son Albie with her husband Andy.

She revealed the couple were expecting another child in September with a post from Disneyland.