BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Amy Dowden's sweet tribute to 'devoted' father as she says 'I can't wait'
Amy shared the news on social media as she dedicated a post to her father and 'role model'.
Amy shared a heartfelt post for her father.
(Image: Joseph Okpako, WireImagevia Getty Images)
Strictly Come Dancing's Amy Dowden has shared a heartfelt tribute to her 'role model'. The dancer shared some exciting news on social media as her father celebrates two milestones in one today.
Today, Friday, August 8, Richard Dowden celebrated both his birthday and his retirement, and his daughter celebrated the occasion with an emotional Instagram post which shows just how much she appreciates her father. You can read more about the promise Amy made her family following her cancer diagnosis, here.
The dancer shared: "Happy birthday, HAPPY RETIREMENT DAD! I'm so happy you're finally going to get the rest you so deserve! I'm so proud your [sic] my dad!" For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter
Alongside the heartfelt post she shared pictures of the pair together through different major life events, from Amy's wedding to partner Ben Jones, to pictures throughout her battle with cancer.
Amy continued: "Since I can remember you showed us what hard work, dedication, commitment and loyalty to your family truly is.
"Everything you did was for us. I couldn't have had a better role model to look up to. You sacrificed everything and devoted your life to your family
"Can't wait to celebrate you! Enjoy a well deserved retirement. Love you like everyone who meets you! See you later dad xxx"
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Fans of the dancer took to the comments to share their excitement for Amy's father. One person said: "Wonderful photos - Happy Birthday and Retirement day to your Dad "
Another added: "Such lovely photos, your folks look wonderful. Happy Retirement to your dad."
One person drew similarities between the dancer and her father, saying: "What an amazing man! Fun loving like you!"
Amy competed with JLS' JB Gill in last year's competition, however she had to pull out after falling ill.
Amy will be returning to the dancefloor this September to take part in this year's Strictly Come Dancing. The Welsh dancer was announced amongst the other Strictly pros earlier this year. You can read more here.
Viewers can look forward to seeing Dianne Buswell, Nadiya Bychkova, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones and Nikita Kuzmin strut their stuff on the dance floor. Two new dancers will also be joining the team, in the way of Alexis Warr and Julian Caillon
Luba Mushtuk, Jowita Przystal, Johannes Radebe, Aljaž Škorjanec, Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas and Vito Coppola will also be making a comeback to the popular BBC programme.
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However, fan favourite Gorka Marquez won't be appearing in this year's season as much as some viewers would like. The dancer will be taking time between the show and their Spanish equivalent where he will feature as a judge this Autumn. You can read more here.
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