A true gentleman of the dancefloor

Tributes to star who died after a long struggle with depression

- NICOLA METHVEN

THE death of Strictly star Robin Windsor at just 44 was declared an "absolute tragedy" as tributes were paid last night to a kind, caring "true gentleman" of the dance world.Robin, who joined.

Strictly as a dance pro in 2010 and left in 2014 after suffering a back injury, had battled depression for many years.

His friend and former dance partner Kristina Rihanoff, 46, said: "When I got partnered with him on Strictly I was blown away by his kindness, lighthearted personality and amazing loyalty.

"It is an absolute tragedy that he felt there was no way out." Robin's last  Instagram post, on January 28, showed him with his head back, eyes closed, wearing a dark vest, with the caption: "Hiding in the shadows." He had suffered bouts of depression since his late teens, and had previously told of once checking into a hotel intending to take his own life.

He said he was saved by his phone lighting up, on silent. He said: "I broke down and realised I was doing the most stupid thing and it was after that I decided to seek help." Robin, who was born in Ipswich, Suffolk started dance lessons aged four, and studied Latin and Ballroom, representing England in World Championships.

He was an original member of dance show Burn the Floor in 2001. He and  Kristina headlined the show in the West End in 2013 and took it all over the world before back pain forced him to stop performing in 2018.