Dan Walker reveals horror bike smash wiped his memory but 'there's footage of it'
TV star Dan Walker is gearing up for an epic 200-mile bike ride across the north of England in the name of charity, just months after he was involved in a terrifying bike crash that left him unconscious for 25 minutes. The Classic FM DJ is taking on this gruelling 48-hour challenge to support Global's Make Some Noise campaign and despite the serious accident that left a gap in his memory, the 47-year-old broadcaster is not deterred. In fact, he says he's barely given the incident a second thought as he prepares for his mammoth journey - but he knows there's footage of it somewhere.
"To be honest with you, I've not even thought about it. I haven't watched the accident back. I know there's footage of it but I don't think I need to," he told PA news agency before setting off on the cross-country charity ride. The former BBC Breakfast said he refused to let the crash rob him of one of his greatest passions and made sure he didn't leave it too long before getting back in the saddle. "I can't remember what happened, because I was out cold for a bit, but I never didn't think about getting back on a bike," he said. "I think I got back on and started cycling again maybe three weeks afterwards."
While the memory occasionally resurfaces, Dan says he remains cautious and positive - and of course extra careful on the roads. "Obviously, it goes through your mind every now and again. But I try and take as much care as I can. I think cycling makes me a better driver, and driving makes me a better cyclist, I would hope so."
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The former Strictly contestant is currently on Day One of his coast-to-coast challenge which starts in Withernsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, and takes him through Sheffield, where he grew up, and onto Manchester, before arriving in Liverpool tomorrow (Friday, October 4). Along the way he will be greeted by musical moments and surprises, with money raised going to small charities and grassroots projects across the UK that tackle issues such as mental health, poverty and homelessness.
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Enthusiastically, Dan stated: "I think cycling is great. I really enjoy it, I'm not sure this is going to be for pleasure, but it's for a good reason and for a good cause. I'll definitely be thinking of all of those people and hopefully lots of other charities who will benefit."
As well as getting in the miles, Dan will also be continuing his duties as the host of Classic FM Breakfast from 6.30am to 10am while tackling the ride. Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, he said: "I know that I'll be taken care of and, obviously, I'll be wearing a helmet, and we've got all the equipment and snacks crucially, and I'm sure the body will hold up, and I'm looking forward to the finish line already."
Supporters eager to contribute to Dan's valiant venture can donate through the Global's Make Some Noise website or via text. Contributions are made by texting codes DAN40, DAN30, DAN20, or DAN10 to 70766, corresponding with donation amounts of £40, £30, £20, or £10 respectively.
Stay tuned to Classic FM for all the latest updates on the Coast To Coast Challenge.
