‘Rest in peace pop you were 99 years young’ – Strictly’s Dianne Buswell breaks down as she announces beloved grandfather’s death just weeks after losing her nan and days after celebrating Glitterball triumph - suong

STRICTLY Come Dancing star Dianne Buswell has announced the sad news that her beloved grandfather has died.

The ballroom star, 36, who won the last series of the BBC competition with comedian Chris McCausland, shared the devastating news today.

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Dianne took to her Instagram with recent clips of her reuniting with her granddad following her successful stint on the show.

In one heartwarming moment, Dianne surprised her grandad with a special visit in Australia.

The 99-year-old was chuffed to see his granddaughter and called her a "champion" after her Glitterball win, as they held hands and swung them side-to-side.

Sharing her heartbreak, Dianne wrote: "Rest in peace pop, you were 99 years young. Thank you for all the stories and I just know you will be up there dancing with Nan already."

Dianne's fellow Strictly pals were quick to share messages of support.

Nancy Xu wrote: " Sending you all the love," with a string of purple heart emojis.

Pro dancer Michelle Tsiak posted: "I’m so sorry for your loss Di. Sending you and your family all my love."

Vito Coppola shared a red heart and prayer emoji in the comment section.

The sad loss comes just a weeks after Dianne's grandmother died.

In March she shared a montage of clips with her late nan and wrote: "Rest in peace nan. Love you very much. I’m so grateful I was home to say goodbye to such a special lady in my life.

"Now go be with pop he has been patiently waiting for you."

Dianne has been open about her family and their health battles - including her dad's battle with cancer.

In April 2024, she shared the happy news that her father Mark has finished chemotherapy in Australia after 12 rounds of treatment.

She wrote at the time: "To my daddy you did it 6 months later and 12 rounds done.

“I am so so PROUD of you it’s been a tough road but you have always done it with a smile and a thumbs up. I know you were scared and I know it was not easy but you have done it.”

She continued: “I wish so much I could be there right now and just cuddle you,” she penned. “You're my hero and you have made me realise we all have so much more strength then we think.

“And to my beautiful mum who has not left your side and been the best support system ever thank you. Us kids are so lucky to have you both we love you so much.

“Now we need to book that trip in back to UK for the both of you.”

Dianne first appeared on Dancing with the Stars in Australia in 2015. She then joined Strictly Come Dancing in the UK in 2017.

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