Pregnant Oti Mabuse has expressed deep gratitude to her loved ones for being her 'anchors' during the most challenging nine months. The professional dancer recently celebrated her first-ever baby shower this weekend, following the difficult premature birth of her daughter.

The 36-year-old former Strictly Come Dancing star and her 44-year-old husband announced in June that they were expecting another child. In a post on Sunday, Oti expressed her joy at being able to mark the occasion, revealing that the celebration was a surprise.

She wrote: 'My first ever baby shower. Marius, Motsi, Takkies and Thomas... how you managed to pull this off without me knowing is beyond me!

I honestly never thought I'd have one, and it meant more than I can explain. The first time around, the baby arrived before we ever got to this part.'

'So getting to sit in a room full of my closest friends, the people I call family, and celebrate this little life was incredibly special. To you all who came or sent messages from afar, thank you for being my anchors through the hardest nine months.'

'You've held our whole family through so much. I am a fuller person because you are all in my life.

Thank you for making me feel so loved.' It is worth mentioning that the couple's two-year-old daughter was born 10 weeks prematurely, suffered a traumatic birth, and contracted sepsis. Oti and choreographer Marius, who married in 2014, have never publicly revealed their daughter's name.

The couple continues to cherish their privacy while sharing glimpses of their journey with fans. The celebration served as a moment of healing for the family, who have navigated significant health challenges over the past two years.

Friends and family gathered to shower the expectant mother with support and well-wishes. Oti's fans have flooded her social media with congratulatory messages, celebrating this milestone alongside her.

The dancer remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, balancing her professional commitments with her growing family. As she prepares for the arrival of her second child, Oti continues to advocate for awareness regarding premature births.

Her openness about her experiences has resonated with many parents who have faced similar struggles. The couple looks forward to this new chapter with optimism, surrounded by the love and support of their close-knit community.

This baby shower marks a significant and joyful turning point for the family.