Featured Image Credit: BBC
Topics: TV And Film, Celebrity, UK News, BBC, Reality TV
Rhiannon Ingle
Race Across The World contestant, Sam Gardiner, has tragically died aged just 24 years old, and his family have since released a touching statement.
Sam appeared on the 2019 series of the hit BBC show with his mum, Jo, where they travelled from Mexico to Argentina.
Sam had been driving on the A34 near Manchester last Monday night (26 May) when his car left the road and rolled before landing on its side, Greater Manchester Police said.
He was the only person in the vehicle and was taken to hospital, where he died of his injuries on Thursday (29 May), his family confirmed in a recent statement (via the BBC).
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Sam's mother, Jo, and his father, Andrew, said: "We are devastated by the loss of our beloved son Sam in a terrible accident.
"Sam left us far too soon, and whilst words will never fully capture the light, joy and energy he brought into our lives, we hold on to the memories that made him so special. Sam was adored by his family. As a son, brother and nephew, he was loyal, funny and fiercely protective."
The pair added that taking part in Race Across The World 'opened his eyes to the wonder of adventure and travel'.
"He was willing to go wherever the trail might lead and he touched everyone he met on the road." the statement continued.
"Sam brought warmth, laughter and a smattering of chaos wherever he went. He leaves behind a huge hole in our hearts.
"He found great happiness working as a landscape gardener on the west coast of Scotland. He leaves behind a huge hole in our hearts.
"We will miss him endlessly, but we'll also remember him with smiles, tall tales, and a depth of love that will never fade."
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said in a press release that Sam's family were being 'supported by specially trained officers' and had 'asked for privacy at this terrible time'.
They added: "We’d like to thank everyone who shared our appeal and have sent their best wishes to Sam and his family."
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the makers of Race Across The World said: "Everyone who worked with him and indeed everyone who watched Sam could see just how precious and transformative the trip was for both him and his mum, Jo.
"Sam embraced the seven-week trip with an energy, love and a determination that saw the pair enjoy adventures across Mexico to Argentina making audiences fall in love with them and their special bond as a result.
"We would like to extend our deepest condolences to his parents, Andrew and Jo; his brothers, William and Charlie; his step mum Justine; his family and friends."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.