Race Across the World star dies in car crash aged 24
The family of 24-year-old Sam Gardiner, who competed in BBC's Race Across the World, has paid tribute to him after he died in a car crash.
In a statement, his mother, Jo, who appeared with him in the second series of the travel competition, 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.
'He did Race Across the World in 2019, which 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. He found great happiness working as a landscape gardener on the west coast of Scotland.
'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.'
The accident happened on the A34 in Gatley, near Cheadle, on Monday night, Greater Manchester Police said.
Following the TV star's death, a spokesperson for the makers of Race Across the World also paid tribute.
They said: '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.
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'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 stepmum, Justine; his family and friends.'
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