Terry Duddy has resigned as chair of BBC Children In Need just weeks into the role after he was convicted of causing serious injury by careless and inconsiderate driving
BBC Children In Need chairman Terry Duddy has stepped down just weeks into his role after being sentenced for seriously injuring a cyclist in a car accident. Duddy was involved in a collision with a cyclist in Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, resulting in severe injuries to the woman when she was thrown off her bike and onto the road.
Thames Valley Police reported that the incident on June 21 “had a life-changing impact” on the woman, who is in her fifties. She had the right of way when Duddy turned right off the high street and collided with her. The police force stated that Duddy, 69, of Nightingales Lane, Chalfont St Giles, was sentenced for causing serious injury by careless and inconsiderate driving on November 13.
He received an eight-month custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months, along with 200 hours of unpaid work, costs amounting to £272, and an 18-month driving ban.
In a statement, BBC Children In Need announced: “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 assumed the position of chairman, the charity said.
“We remain focused on helping children and young people thrive,” the statement concluded.
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”.
The charity also confirmed “robust” checks were carried out prior to Duddy’s appointment.
A spokeswoman said: “In accordance with established processes for all senior hires at the BBC robust due diligence was undertaken, including a DBS [criminal record] check.
“No concerns were identified or disclosed during this process.”
Duddy was a trustee of the London Marathon Foundation, chair of London Marathon Events and chair of the charity Catch 22.
He has previously held senior commercial roles, including chief executive of Home Retail Group Plc.
Children In Need collected more than £45 million following its annual appeal programme on Friday.
It operates independently with its own board of trustees, relying on public donations and other partners to fund its work.
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