The family of Race Across The World contestant Sam Gardiner have expressed their gratitude after more than £10,000 was donated to a fundraising campaign in his memory. The 24-year-old, who appeared on the BBC One show with his mother Jo, died in a car crash last month.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that on Monday 26 May his vehicle careered off the A34, rolled and ended on its side. Gardiner died from his injuries on 29 May.
His mother Jo said: “We have been overwhelmed by the tens of thousands of messages of love and support on social media and in comments to press reporting. We would like to thank the BBC, Studio Lambert and everyone at Race Across The World production, fellow contestants and fans of the show for all their support at this terrible time.”
His father Andrew described Sam as “a beloved son, a cherished brother, and a truly unforgettable soul”. He said he set up the JustGiving page, titled 'Sam Gardiner; Super Human', with a target of £500. It has so far raised more than 20 times that amount.
National FASD, which benefits from the donations, provides support to people with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, their families and communities, and campaigns to raise public awareness. The organisation describes FASD as a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition resulting from prenatal alcohol exposure.
A message on the National FASD Instagram account said: “Sam lived his life full of love, exuberance and adventure as seen on BBC’s Race Across the World. National FASD is both humbled and honoured to help carry on his legacy via donations coming from hundreds.” A private funeral will be held later this month.
