Terry Duddy resigns as BBC Children in Need chairman after causing serious injury to cyclist in Thames Valley

Terry Duddy resigns as BBC Children in Need chairman after causing serious injury to cyclist in Thames Valley

Just days after being named chairman of BBC Children in Need, Terry Duddy, 69, has resigned following a driving incident that left a female cyclist seriously injured.

The shocking footage, captured on CCTV in June, shows the collision unfold in a matter of seconds.

CCTV Captures Moment of Impact

The video released by Thames Valley Police shows Duddy’s black BMW turning sharply and cutting in front of a cyclist, believed to be in her 50s.

The SUV hits her, sending her into the air before she crashes onto the road.

Fellow cyclists behind her immediately rushed to her aid as she lay on the pavement.

Legal Consequences for Former Chair

Duddy appeared in court last Thursday, receiving an 18-month suspended sentence.

He was also ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work for careless driving causing serious injury.

In light of the conviction, Duddy told the BBC on Tuesday that he would be stepping down from his newly appointed role.

BBC and Charity Leadership Respond

The BBC’s board quickly accepted Duddy’s resignation, appointing James Fairclough, a long-time trustee, as interim chair.

Duddy’s departure marks another leadership shake-up for the charity, which has seen its fair share of public scrutiny in recent weeks.

Duddy’s Career and Other Roles

Before his short stint at Children in Need, Duddy held senior positions at major UK retailers, including Argos.

He also chairs London Marathon Events and the welfare charity Catch22.

A spokesperson for Catch22 confirmed they were reviewing the implications of Duddy’s conviction for his role at the organization.

BBC Faces Broader Leadership Changes

Duddy’s resignation comes amid wider upheaval at the BBC.

Director-General Tim Davie recently stepped down, taking responsibility for mistakes under his leadership, while Deborah Turness, the corporation’s CEO of News, resigned following a controversy over the editing of a Donald Trump speech for Panorama.

Public Reaction and Next Steps

The incident and Duddy’s swift resignation have sparked discussions about accountability and leadership in high-profile organizations.

As investigations continue, both Catch22 and the BBC say they will update the public on any further developments.

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