Former boxer Nicola Adams and her Strictly Come Dancing partner Katya Jones have left the BBC contest after Jones tested positive for Covid-19.

A statement said the programme's "protocols" meant the pair would now self-isolate and would not be able to take part in the rest of the series.

They made history as the first same-sex couple to take part in the UK show.

"I'm absolutely devastated my Strictly journey has come to an end so soon," the Olympic gold medallist said.

"I had so much more to give and so many people to win this for! But I just want to say a huge thank you to Katya for being the best dance partner anyone could ask for.

"I'm gutted to be out of the competition but in these unprecedented times and as frustrating as it is, the Covid measures in place are to keep everyone safe, and I'm doing what I can to help."

Jones is asymptomatic and said she was "devastated to leave this way".

"But I've made a friend for life and loved every moment of this special journey," she added.

Host Claudia Winkleman said she was "so sad", while It Takes Two presenter Zoe Ball said she was "gutted for Nicola and Katya", adding: "You made history girls."

We're so sad about this. Nicola and Katya were completely brilliant. X https://t.co/UhHaBNP10r

— Claudia Winkleman (@ClaudiaWinkle) November 12, 2020

Gutted for Nicola and Katya. You made history girls. Sending them both all the love ♥️ https://t.co/R5gZeLNw8z

— Zoe Ball (@ZoeTheBall) November 12, 2020

Adams, who won Olympic gold medals in 2012 and 2016, said she asked the BBC for a female partner because it was "definitely time for change".

The pair came in the top half of the leaderboard with their quickstep in week one, and impressed the judges again in week two with their street/commercial routine.

But they found themselves in the dance-off last week after performing their jive, eventually being saved by the judges at the expense of former NFL player Jason Bell.

A number of crew members are also self-isolating after coming into contact with Jones, according to the PA news agency.

The show's executive producer Sarah James said: "We are incredibly sad that these unfortunate circumstances mean that Nicola and Katya are unable to continue on Strictly. They are a brilliant partnership and had already achieved so much during their time on the show."