Former British tennis player Annabel Croft is participating in the 2023 series of Strictly Come Dancing alongside her professional dance partner Johannes.

Recently, Annabel opened up about how the programme had been "emotional" for her since the passing of her husband Mel Coleman.

She said: “It’s been quite emotional, I was telling Johannes that there was a lovely lady where we were rehearsing, who just stopped and took a moment to come and speak to me.

“And I actually got a bit emotional myself, because she started telling me that she also had just lost her husband of 30 years.

“And it just cut right through me, and she was saying how she understood what I was going through. And of course, I can understand what she’s going through.”

Who is Annabel Croft's late husband?

Strictly star Annabel Croft's late husband is Mel Coleman, a former international America's Cup and Admiral's Cup yachtsman.

The couple lived together near Wimbledon with their two daughters Amber Rose and Lily as well as their son, Charlie.

How did Mel Coleman pass away?

Sadly, Mel was diagnosed with stomach cancer and died on May 24, 2023, at the age of 60 after a short battle.

Annabel confirmed the news earlier this year and revealed that it came as a complete shock to her and their three children due to his seemingly perfect health.

He was diagnosed with stomach cancer just eight weeks before his death with the athlete and investment banker complaining of stomach pains two months before his diagnosis.

Annabel said of his passing: “My beloved Mel passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning after a short battle with cancer. My family and I are completely heartbroken and ask for privacy at this very sad time.”

Strictly Come Dancing continues on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Saturdays and Sundays.