Ex-Spice Girl Mel C faces surgery

Mel C was thrown to the floor by Miss World, Azra Akin

Former Spice Girl Mel C may need knee surgery after being injured in a celebrity TV sport contest.

The singer was taking part in a judo match against Miss World, Azra Akin, during Channel 4's The Games, when she fell awkwardly.

She was taken by ambulance to hospital where it was discovered she had torn a cruciate ligament in her knee.

Her personal trainer, Matt Roberts, described it as a "serious injury" that had "long-term ramifications".

The judo bout was part of Channel 4's celebrity sports competition, which has seen stars train for various events, including athletics and gymnastics, to raise money for charity.

TV presenter Gail Porter has already pulled out of the contest after pulling a hamstring.

Mel C stayed overnight in hospital

Mel C, who was known as Sporty Spice, pulled out of the competition and stayed in a Sheffield hospital overnight while specialists examined her.

She recorded a message from her hospital bed sending her best wishes to her fellow contestants and well-wishers.

She also wanted to reassure Ms Akin that she did not blame her for the accident.

Since the Spice Girls split, Mel C has forged a solo career, with seven solo top 20 hits. She recently announced two concerts in London and Manchester for December.

Mr Roberts said: "It's a serious injury and we have to talk to the doctor in more detail. It's something which has long-term ramifications."

A spokesman for the show said: "She was in a lot of pain and the girls are devastated. We're all hoping for the best."

He added: "They were aware when they went into this, as in any sporting event, there was a possibility of this sort of eventuality, and they all went in with their eyes wide open."