Tragic news has emerged that Sam Gardiner, known for his memorable participation in BBC’s Race Across The World, has died following a car accident. The 24 year old was involved in a serious incident while driving his white Volkswagen Golf R estate on the A34 in Gatley, near Cheadle, and tragically succumbed to his injuries on Thursday, according to his family.
Sam, who competed in the intense travel competition’s second series alongside his mother, was praised by her as she expressed her devastation over his untimely passing. The accident that claimed Sam’s life occurred on Monday night; he was returning to Manchester for a family event after working as a landscape gardener on a remote Scottish estate.
Having graced the screens in March 2020 with his mum Jo Gardiner, viewers witnessed their exhilarating experiences in Mexico and Argentina during the show. In their heartfelt statement, Mrs Gardiner and husband Andrew shared: “We are devastated by the loss of our beloved son Sam in a terrible accident.”
Sam ‘adored by his family’
They continued to reflect on Sam’s character: “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.”
His relatives attested to his endearing qualities: “Sam was adored by his family. As a son, brother and nephew, he was loyal, funny and fiercely protective.”
Sam’s adventures in 2019’s Race Across The World were transformative, as noted by his family: “He did Race Across The World in 2019, which opened his eyes to the wonder of adventure and travel.”
They remarked on his passion and impact: “He was willing to go wherever the trail might lead and he touched everyone he met on the road. He found great happiness working as a landscape gardener on the west coast of Scotland.”
He shared: “Sam brought warmth, laughter and a smattering of chaos wherever he went. 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.”
Police latest statement
A spokesperson from the police relayed: “We sadly must confirm that the driver of a white VW Golf R estate involved in a single vehicle collision on Monday 26 May on the A34 in Gatley has since passed away from his injuries. The driver, a 24-year-old man, has been named as Sam Gardiner.
“His family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers.
“Emergency services attended the scene after a vehicle was reported to have left the carriageway and rolled before landing on its side.”
Race Across The World team ‘deeply saddened’
Representatives from Race Across The World commented: “We are all deeply saddened to hear the tragic news about Sam.
“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.
“Since filming, both Sam and Jo have been an integral part of the Race Across The World cast family and on behalf of us all from the BBC, production and the rest of the cast, 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.”
Looking for more from MyLondon? Subscribe to our daily newsletters here for the latest and greatest updates from across London.
