Strictly’s Rose Ayling-Ellis sends sweet birthday message to partner Giovanni amid split from boyfriend

STRICTLY winner Rose Ayling-Ellis has paid a touching birthday tribute to her dance partner Giovanni Pernice, days after her split from her long-term boyfriend.

The EastEnders actress, who lifted the Glitterball in December, marked Giovanni's special day with her favourite video of the pair of them.

Queen anthem Don’t Stop Me Now by Queen sound-tracked the clip that saw her in a sparkly top hat and Giovanni in a black cape.

She wrote "happy birthday" over the top of the video and added celebratory emojis.

We revealed Rose and ex Samuel Arnold's split on Sunday after he grew close to her pal.

Rose, 27, and Samuel, who are both deaf, finally called it quits after seven years, friends say.

He has been consoled by Rose’s pal and CBeebies host Aimee Campbell-Nottage since the relationship began to hit the rocks in April this year.

It comes after The Sun on Sunday suggested last week that the Strictly curse may have pierced Rose.

She danced with Giovanni and Sam was in the crowd last December to see her lift the Glitterball.

Since then Rose — who is quitting as EastEnders’ Frankie Lewis — has spent time away touring with the BBC1 dance extravaganza.

A friend said: “Rose and Sam’s relationship is definitely over.

“It’s very amicable and they’ll remain close friends, but unfortunately there is no future for them romantically.

"They spent a lot of time apart while Rose was away on tour, which has had an impact.

“It’s been difficult for them both, of course, but they’re certain it’s the right move — and Sam’s had a shoulder to cry on in their mutual friend Aimee.

“Meanwhile Rose has been throwing herself into work. She’s had lots of offers since winning Strictly.

"It’s an exciting time for her”