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1st June 2025
05:28pm BST
Sam Gardiner, who starred on Race Across The World, has tragically died aged just 24.
In a statement, his mother Jo who also appeared on the show, explained that Sam died in a terrible car accident.
She wrote: "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."
She also wrote: "He was willing to go wherever the trail might lead and he touched everyone he met on the road.
"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."
Greater Manchester Police explained that the accident happened on Monday night. Sam sadly died from his injuries on Thursday.
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."
