Devastated Susanna Reid fights back tears as she learns Strictly partner Robin Windsor has died live on GMB

HEARTBROKEN Susanna Reid fought back tears on today's Good Morning Britain after learning of the death of her Strictly partner Robin Windsor.

The devastated broadcaster was unable to announce the shock news, deferring to co-host Ed Balls who read a statement from stage show Burn The Floor announcing Robin's passing.

After the tribute, a shaken Susanna, who danced with Robin in the 2011 Children In Need special, said: "Robin was larger than life and I fell in love with him and fell in love with dancing when I danced with him back then. He was an absolutely remarkable dancer, incredibly strong, so creative, he was just so enthusiastic about dancing. I just adored him.

"He was the most incredible personality. As soon as I danced with him there was something very special about him."

After the break, she continued: "I have wonderful memories of you, Robin. He was very sensual, wonderfully exuberant. Full of strength and creativity. He made me fall in love with dancing. He was a fabulous, phenomenal personality."

Richard Arnold was also devastated by the loss.

Tearing up, the show's entertainment editor said: "I can't believe it actually. Such heart, such a talent, such a twinkler."

Lorraine Kelly said: "I'm really shocked. Just a lovely, kind, gorgeous man. And so good at what he did. I just loved the way he encouraged everybody. Far too young. I'm so sorry for everyone that loves him. It's just really tragic isn't it."

Professional dancer Robin, 44, finished runner-up on the 2012 series of the hit BBC show with actress Lisa Riley.

He performed with newsreader Susanna in a special episode for Children In Need in 2011, before she joined the main show with Kevin Clifton the following year.

Robin first appeared on the BBC series with Patsy Kensit in 2010, reaching week nine of the competition, before being eliminated at the same stage with Eastenders legend Anita Dobson two years later.

He went on to reach week five with Dragons' Den star Deborah Meaden in 2013.

Robin left the show in 2014, claiming bosses had axed him following a "horrible back operation".

Speaking at the time, he said: "Leaving Strictly wasn’t my choice. I had a horrible back operation and they decided that they didn’t want to ask me back the next year.

"It was probably for health and safety reasons, in case something happened, but I was physically fit.";

Tributes have poured in for Robin following the tragic announcement of his death.

Strictly co-star James Jordan said: "I had the pleasure of working with this man for many years on Strictly.

"Everyone who came in contact with him adored him, from his celebrity partners to his working colleagues. You will be missed old friend."

Burn The Floor, an international Ballroom and Latin dance company co-founded by Robin, added: "A BTF journeyman he danced with us for twenty years - including Broadway, The West End and all our crazy adventures around the world.

It comes as...

• Co-star James Jordan leads tributes for dancing pro James Jordan
• The Strictly star posted on social media just days before he passed
• Inside Robin’s relationship with ex-boyfriend & X-Factor star Marcus Collins
• He was forced to quit Strictly 'or risk ending up in wheelchair'

"His stunning image attached with Jessica Raffa defined our company, colourful, extreme and sensual.

"His talent, attitude, energy and personality helped create the Burn the Floor stage reputation.

"He leaves a void in our hearts that will never be filled, yet our wonderful memories will stay forever."

Away from Strictly, Robin also performed in the West End and on Broadway.

He was enrolled at a local dance school in Ipswich aged three, going on to study Ballroom and Latin dance before representing England at international level.

Robin's big break came in 2001 when he was cast in the popular show Burn The Floor which toured around the world.