TV

It's Chico time: Chesney's Dancing on Ice exit

Former X Factor star Chico has replaced singer Chesney Hawkes on Dancing on Ice, just days before the first show, it has been revealed.

The One and Only star will not be taking part in the series after sustaining an injury to his leg during training.

According to ITV, the singer was practising basic skating steps with his partner Jodeyne Higgins when he took a tumble and suffered a severe ankle sprain and fractured fibula.

Speaking about his exit, Chesney said:

"I am gutted not to be taking part in Dancing on Ice. It wasn’t even a spectacular fall, it was a slight stumble as I practiced with my skating partner.

Dancing on Ice
Who will Chico be
joining on the ice?

"I was having a brilliant time and couldn’t wait to finally be skating live on national TV!"

Hawkes' replacement, television personality Chico, has mixed feelings about taking Chesney's place, explaining:

"Whilst I'm really excited about being part of the new series of Dancing on Ice it's not necessarily in the best of circumstances.

"I wish Chesney all the best and a speedy recovery. I will not just be skating for myself I will be skating for Chesney as well and do him proud."

Chico will join the likes of former Brookside star Jennifer Ellison, Sugababe Heidi Range and film star Corey Feldman on the ice this year.

Catch Chico and the rest of the celebrities in the first episode of Dancing on Ice, this Sunday at 6.30pm on ITV1.