Matt Baker has paid tribute to 2019 Rickshaw Challenge rider Adelle Keown after her sad death.
The former ‘One Show’ host returned to the BBC programme on Monday (13.07.20) to announce the 18-year-old’s tragic passing after she lost her battle with cancer a year after taking part in a 400-mile cycling fundraiser alongside the TV star and five other youngsters for Children In Need.
Matt said: "The first time I met Adelle, I was really taken with her quiet determination.
"I spoke to her not so long ago when she was undergoing another bout of treatment and I was just so impressed by her outlook…
"I am delighted that she had the opportunity to do the Rickshaw Challenge, so that millions of people could really see what being an inspiration is all about. She will be greatly missed."
In 2019, Adelle had been inspired to take part in the Children In Need event to honour her best friend Victoria, who had died from acute myeloid leukaemia in October 2017.
A few months after her friend passed away, Adelle was diagnosed with the same condition and underwent chemotherapy – which was successful – and she had a bone marrow stem cell transplant in October 2018.
Adelle’s own treatments were paid for by Cancer Fund Northern Ireland, which receives help from Children In Need.
Through last year’s Rickshaw Challenge, Matt, Adelle and the other five members of the team helped to bring in over £8 million for the charity as part of the annual telethon.
As he paid tribute to the late teen, presenter Matt was making his first appearance on the show since his departure in March, which came after he announced plans for his exit in December last year.
He said at the time: "It’s time to give someone else the opportunity to see how big-hearted and generous you, the viewers, really are. It’s something I get to witness every year.
"I thank you all from the bottom of my heart… now I finally get to put my kids to bed. Thank you everyone for the most random, wonderful nine years."