Strictly's Giovanni Pernice denies 'wrongdoing' following split from Maura Higgins

Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice has denied there was any wrongdoing involved in his split from Maura Higgins.

The Italian dancer went Instagram official with the Love Island star in July but they reportedly split up earlier this month.

However, a report published by The Sun on Sunday night suggested Giovanni had been active on the celebrity dating app Raya before they parted ways, a claim his representative denied.

The dancer finally broke his silence about the split on Monday and insisted there was no wrongdoing on either side.

"I just wanted to say a couple of things," he wrote in his social media message. "Firstly, great relationships with great people can come to a natural end. This has been the case for me recently. There was absolutely no wrong-doing & this should be the end of any speculation.

"Whilst I respect & understand interest in my personal life, wouldn't it be fantastic to instead use this space to raise awareness of subjects & issues which need the attention.

"My eyes have been opened to so many things during my career, but I am learning so much from this series of Strictly. The show has highlighted many important conversations for different communities & increased representation. These are the conservations which deserve the time, energy & recognition... we must concentrate on what's important and how we can all make a difference in life."

Giovanni is currently partnered on Strictly with EastEnders actress Rose Ayling-Ellis, the first deaf person to compete in the series.

Maura has not yet responded to his statement.