By Olivia Wheeler

Copyright walesonline

Strictly Come Dancing aired its first elimination on Sunday night, where Amy Dowden and Thomas Skinner sadly left the competition. Former Apprentice star Thomas, 34, and Amy, 35, were defeated in Sunday’s dance-off by former England rugby star Chris Robshaw and his partner Nadiya Bychkova, with both pairs performing their dances from Saturday night for a second time. Amy and Thomas received 13 points for their salsa to Bonkers by Dizzee Rascal and Armand van Helden. Speaking about his time on the show, Thomas said of his show exit: “I’ve loved it. I’ve never danced before and my stay was short, but Amy’s amazing. “It’s been great fun and I’ve enjoyed it. I can’t really dance that well but I’ve had fun! Thank you, Amy – sorry that we haven’t done too good, ‘cause you’re a different class.” Taking to social media after their show exit, Amy penned a lengthy and emotional message on Instagram. Amy penned: “Our strictly journey has sadly come to end. “Tom, you have truly helped bring me back, not just to the show, but to myself. Our training days have been filled with laughter and just enjoying the moment. “Your work ethic, your heart, and your commitment the last few weeks has been 110%. You’ve embraced every challenge with such positivity, and I couldn’t have asked for more from you. “I would have absolutely loved to take you even further, just to share even more of the joy of dancing and the strictly magic with you. “But I’m leaving with a heart full of gratitude and pride. Thank you. What I’ve learnt more than ever this past two years what matters, happiness, health and to be grateful to be alive doing what I love. “I wish all the contestants the very best of luck this season is going to be spectacular I’ll be watching and cheering you all on. Lastly thanks for all the love , certainly felt it! Welsh love always xxx @bbcstrictly @iamtomskinner.” Meanwhile, Thomas took to Twitter , now X, to share a post after his Strictly exit. He penned: “Good Morning and happy Monday you lovely people!! Back in the van for me this morning, it’s another busy one. Hope you all had a wonderful weekend. “I’m catching up on my messages & emails this morning so will be getting back to everyone who needs a new mattress. Also want to say a massive thank you to all the lovely messages of support I’ve had. It means the world! “I know I was rubbish at dancing, but it was so much fun. But back to reality. You are ten times stronger than you can ever imagine……so don’t give up!! Keep on moving forward! Let’s go smash it today. New week, new day, new start. Don’t go home until you’re proud. Bosh.” Strictly Come Dancing continues on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.