The newly appointed chairman of BBC Children in Need, Terrence Duddy, has resigned from his position following his conviction for a traffic incident that left a cyclist with life-changing injuries.
The Incident and Legal Consequences
The event occurred on June 21 in Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire. Duddy, who is 69 years old and known as Terry, was driving his BMW when he turned right off the high street and collided with a female cyclist in her fifties.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that the woman had the right of way. The impact caused her to fall from her bike onto the road, resulting in serious injuries. Authorities stated the incident has “had a life-changing impact” on the victim.
On November 13, Duddy was sentenced at court. He received an eight-month suspended prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, and was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work. He was also disqualified from driving for 18 months and ordered to pay costs totalling £272.
Resignation and Charity's Response
Terrence Duddy had only recently started his role as chair of the BBC's flagship charity on October 21. However, on Tuesday, November 18, he informed the board of his conviction.
In an official statement, BBC Children in Need said: “In light of this he offered his resignation, which the board accepted, agreeing he could not continue in this role.”
The charity moved swiftly to appoint a successor, announcing that James Fairclough, a trustee since 2021, has now taken over as chairman. The statement added that the organisation “remains focused on helping children and young people thrive.”
Context and Fallout
When his appointment was announced, the charity had praised Duddy, stating he “brings a wealth of governance and leadership experience across both the charity and commercial sectors.” His departure comes just weeks after the charity's annual appeal show, which raised more than £45 million for disadvantaged children.
This incident has cast a shadow over the leadership of one of the UK's most beloved charities, highlighting the personal conduct expected of those in prominent charitable positions.
