Children In Need chairman Terry Duddy quits after seriously injuring cyclist in crash
The chairman of BBC Children In Need has resigned weeks into the role, after he was sentenced for seriously injuring a cyclist in a crash.
Terrence, known as Terry, Duddy hit a cyclist with his car in Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, causing her serious injuries when she fell off and on to the road.
Thames Valley Police said the incident, on June 21, has “had a life-changing impact” on the woman, in her 50s, who had right of way when Duddy turned right off the high street and crashed into her.
The force said Duddy, 69, of Nightingales Lane, Chalfont St Giles, was sentenced for causing serious injury by careless and inconsiderate driving on November 13.
He was sentenced to eight months in custody, suspended for 18 months, 200 hours of unpaid work to be completed, costs totalling £272 and an 18-month driving disqualification.
In a statement, BBC Children In Need said: “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, who has been a trustee since 2021, has taken his place as chairman, the charity said.
“We remain focused on helping children and young people thrive,” the statement added.
Duddy joined the board of trustees at Children In Need as chairman on October 21.
When he was appointed, the charity said Duddy “brings a wealth of governance and leadership experience across both the charity and commercial sectors, along with a strong commitment to supporting children and young people”.
Children In Need raised more than £45m after its annual appeal show on Friday.