THE family of Amy Hart have been getting death threats by Love Island fans.

Amy, 26, a former air hostess from Worthing, is starring in the current series of the hit ITV2 show.

It features a group of attractive 20-somethings who vie for each other’s affections in a bid to “couple up”.

Amy, along with other contestants, had to vote for the couple who were “least compatible” and she chose Lucie Donlan and Joe Garratt.

The vote led to Joe’s elimination from Love Island.

In response, Love Island fans went online and unleashed a torrent of abuse.

Now Amy’s family, who live in Worthing, have posted a statement on her Instagram account.

It said: “We would like to thank those who continue to support Amy and those who have sent kind messages through this whole Love Island experience, but especially over the last few trying days.

“Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, however the way some people are gunning for Amy is shocking and really upsetting for her friends and family and everyone who knows and loves her.

“The other couples also voted for Lucie and Joe as least compatible due to their recent ups and downs and nobody in the villa knew it would end in any islanders being voted out.”

Speaking to The Sun, the family said they were prepared for scrutiny, but the comments had stepped over the line.

They said: “What is not expected nor deserved is malicious and hateful comments, including death threats.

“Love Island is a lighthearted television show and should be taken as such. Amy is supportive, loyal and kind and certainly does not deserve the extreme level of negativity.

“These comments do not only affect Amy herself but her friends and family.”

Love Island is on ITV2 every night at 9pm.

Every few days the contestants have the chance to “re-couple”, choosing their favourite fellow islander to “couple up with”.

Anyone left without a partner is at risk of being kicked off the show.

The final will see one lucky couple to take home the £50,000 prize.

Amy and Curtis were bookie’s favourites to win but have now slipped to second, behind Michael Griffiths and Amber Gill.