BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Vito Coppola says 'I need your love today' in emotional message after tragic loss

Vito Coppola has shared a message of love to his fans as they rushed to show the Strictly Come Dancing star their support as he suffered a tragic loss.

The professional dancer took to social media as he was preparing to chat with his loyal following ahead of his special Valentine's Day dance class with Strictly's head judge Shirley Ballas which will see them joined by special guests Sarah Hadland, Carlos Gu and Montell Douglas.

But sharing a video to his Instagram Story, the Italian dancer explained he was no longer able to carry out the Instagram Live and explained how he'd been informed of the death of a 'good friend' and an 'amazing dancer'.

In one part of his tribute, Vito shared a video of Lory during a competitive performance and said: "I will forever love you my dear friend. I will pray for you. You will be one of the most beautiful angels. I will see you in the other world, and then we will dance again, all together, like the old time.... I have heard that dancers are the athletes of God. Ciao, Lory."

It was then on Friday morning (February 14) that Vito could be seen heading into This Morning for his latest cooking segment and as he looked out the window of the car, he wrote to his followers: "Today we celebrate LOVE. There are different ways of love. Today I need your love beautiful people.

"You cannot imagine how grateful I am about tonight. All I need today is You! Happy Valentine's Day to everyone. I cannot wait to celebrate with you. If you are single, on your own and don't know how or with who to spend this love day, you are more than welcome to join us for out @dancewithshirleyandvito special class. We will be your Valentines."

He also shared a post to his main Instagram grid and said: "Happy Valentines