Strictly Come Dancing professional Karen Hauer has confirmed she is leaving the BBC show with an emotional statement. Posting a video on Instagram, Karen addressed fans with a "tough" update, explaining: "Hey everyone, I've got something to tell you. It's a tough one, but here we go. After 14 years on Strictly Come Dancing, I've decided this is the right time for me to close this chapter and take on new projects in other areas that I'm passionate about.

"Strictly completely changed my life, not only as a performer and a teacher, but as a human being. I've had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people and brilliant celebrity partners who have become close friends, and people I admire so much.

"None of this would have been possible without the amazing fans. You've been there since day one, when I just moved to the UK and had no idea what I was getting myself into.

"I'm so grateful you watched me grow over the years and witnessed all of my different hairstyles.

"I'm going to miss everyone who makes the show possible, from hair, make-up, wardrobe, the crew behind the cameras, lighting, production and staging, the runners, Dave Arch and the band, the singers and the producers and welfare team who take such good care of us."

Karen continued: "It's an incredible machine powered by brilliant people. To my fellow professional dancers who I adore, I will always be cheering you on. You truly are the best in the business.

"I'll never forget joining the show 14 years ago with Sir Bruce Forsyth and Len Goodman, and learning from such incredible legends along the way. And to the brilliant Tess and Claudia - maybe now we can finally be ladies who lunch in the autumn!

"I'll even miss standing in front of the judges, can you believe that? Smiling politely while sometimes secretly disagreeing. It's been an honour to share the ballroom with them."

"And last but not least, thank you to my friends and family who have supported me through it all. I love you all."

Karen teared up and had to cover her face with her hands as she sniffed before adding: "Now, this isn't a goodbye, it's simply see you later, because I will never stop dancing. Who would have thought that a young girl from the Bronx would end up becoming the longest serving female professional dancer on a British TV institution?

"Strictly will always be in my heart. I love you all," she said.

Her colleagues rushed to support her, with Rylan posting: "You're amazing and you're gonna be missed so much."

Zoe Ball added: "You're one awesome woman Karen, so many incredible memories of your dances with brilliant partners, Dave M, Jeremy V, Charles V and Harry and more. All your pro dances, wow. Exciting adventures ahead. Love you Hotlips Hauer."

Strictly pro Johannes Radebe posted: "There's no-one like you K. We love you mamasita!"

And pro dancer Luba Mushtuk wrote: "So proud of you bb."