Children in Need boss quits after conviction for crashing into cyclist

Children in Need boss Terrence Duddy has received an 18-month suspended sentence after colliding with a cyclist in her 50s, who was knocked off her bike and sent flying into the road.

Duddy, 69, was appointed chair of BBC Children in Need just 11 days ago, but has resigned following his driving conviction.

CCTV footage from June 21 in Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, shows his black BMW turning right across the path of a cyclist.

The four-wheel-drive hits her, sending her into the air before she lands on the road. She suffered serious injuries, which have had a “life-changing” impact.

Cyclists riding behind her rushed to help as she lay on the ground

Thames Valley Police Roads Policing said in a statement on Tuesday: “The cyclist had right of way and a moment of carelessness from the driver, by not properly checking the road was clear to cross, has had a life-changing impact on the cyclist.”

Duddy was sentenced to eight months in prison, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work. He was also fined £272 in costs and disqualified from driving for 18 months.

The 69-year-old told the BBC on Tuesday that he would step down as chair due to the fallout from the incident.

Statement from BBC Children in Need read: “On Tuesday November 18, our new Chair Terry Duddy informed us that he had been convicted last week of causing serious injury through careless driving. In light of this, he offered his resignation, which the board accepted, agreeing he could not continue in this role.

“James Fairclough, a Trustee since 2021, has been formally appointed Chair with immediate effect. We remain focused on helping children and young people thrive.”