Hamish Gaman has admitted that he has been left "devastated and confused" to be dropped from the Dancing On Ice lineup next year.

The 38-year-old fan favourite has been part of the show's professional group for the last four years, although he was forced to withdraw several weeks into this year's series due to a hand injury.

Last week ITV confirmed the lineup of new and returning pros for the 2022 series, with Gaman among one of three being replaced to make room for new blood.

Taking to Instagram, he wrote: "Hi everyone. I'm sad to confirm that I'm not returning to Dancing on Ice this year.

"The producers told me that they weren't bringing me back because they wanted to freshen up the line-up.

"I was completely surprised by their decision and I've been left confused and struggling to make sense of everything that's happened.

"Vanessa [Bauer] and I are still skating partners and I'm devastated that we won't be skating together on the show anymore.

"Thank you for all of your love and support during my time on the show. I'm going to miss skating for you."

The new series of Dancing On Ice begins on ITV in January with celebrities including Rachel Stevens, Ben Foden, Sally Dynevor and Connor Ball.