I'm on holiday! No sprinting or Gladiating. I'm here enjoying myself. I'm lucky and want to make sure I smile through it

WHEN Olympic sprinter Harry Aikines-Aryeetey took part in the Strictly Christmas special, few viewers realised he was only just getting back to being able to walk.

- BY NICOLA METHVEN

Having needed surgery and six weeks in bed after rupturing his kneecap during training for Gladiators last summer, he was desperately wondering if he was crocked for good.

The married dad-of-one says: "I'd been through a really tough time mentally. For athletes, our body is our tool and I wasn't confident that I was going to be back sprinting or back to being Nitro. It put a strain on our family and put a strain on my well-being."

So when the offer to take part in the festive special came along - even though Harry was very restricted in what he was able to do - he says it was the perfect distraction.

"We configured a plan for me to work my way around the dance floor, and I'm so thankful for that opportunity because it gave me something to smile about," he says.