Gemma Atkinson melts fans hearts with adorable tribute to Gorka Marquez after shock Strictly elimination

Another week, another Strictly couple sadly bite the dust.

Gorka Marquez and Gemma Atkinson

Sadly, it was time for Katie Piper and her professional dancer partner Gorka Marquez to wave goodbye to the sequins and sparkle of the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom competition.

And, as the dust settled following their departure, Gorkas girlfriend and former Strictly contestant Gemma Atkinson took to social media to pay a tribute to the duo.

Sharing a snap of Katie and Gorka, 33-year-old Gemma first praised 35-year-old Katie for managing to put her fears aside – after openly discussing her ballroom nerves throughout the competition.

“I know first hand how scary that dance floor can be and I thought Katie did amazingly well at over coming her nerves, getting the job done and most importantly, smiling along the way!”

The, addressing her boyfriend, the former Hollyoaks actress continued: “And Gorks, Im SO proud of you and SO happy that everyone who watches Strictly can now see why I fell in love with the fun, kind, caring and patient man that you are!”

Signing off the touching post, Gemma added: “Well done guys! #teamkorka”

Fans have been very quick to share their own well wishes for the newly departed Strictly couple.

“Well done Katie piper and Gorka, its such a shame you were voted off too soon”, shared one user.

“Well done to Gorka and Katie they did so well, and what a gentleman he is Gemma”, another added.

Agreeing, one user said: “Beautiful @glouiseatkinson your fella did amazing and Katie. You must be so proud. You are a lovely couple xxx”

Katie has since shared a video reflecting on her time during the show – revealing to fans that she thinks it was the right decision for her to leave this week.

Captioning the video, the mother of two penned a moving message to 28-year-old Gorka.

“My partner @gorka_marquez youve been in incredible … You are a great teacher and now a great friend of mine”