Helen Skelton is one of Britain’s most beloved television presenters, a dynamic personality known for her adventurous spirit, warmth towards the audience, and wide-ranging expertise across broadcasting, radio, adventure sports, and authorship.
Early Life and Family Roots
Born July 19, 1983, in Carlisle, Cumbria, Helen grew up on a dairy farm in Kirkby Thore, an upbringing that shaped her lifelong appreciation for nature, outdoor activity, and hard work. Helen’s parents, Richard and Janet Skelton, raised Helen and her brother Gavin (a professional footballer) in a close-knit, rural community. After attending Appleby Grammar School, Helen earned a BA in Journalism from Cumbria Institute of the Arts, a springboard for her media ambitions. Her early forays included extra work on British soaps and tap dance teaching.
Building a Television Career: BBC to Adventure Icon
Helen’s media journey began on local radio, with CFM Radio and BBC Radio Cumbria, where she honed her interview skills and developed a confident presence behind the mic. Quickly, she moved from radio to BBC’s children’s news shows, “Newsround” and “Sportsround,” before making her breakthrough as the 33rd presenter of Blue Peter in 2008.
During five years on Blue Peter, Helen’s fearless attitude vaulted her into memorable stunts and charity exploits, including her record-breaking Amazon River kayak and Namibian ultra-marathon adventures. These feats defined her brand: a presenter willing to embrace physical challenges and inspire viewers.
After leaving Blue Peter, Helen’s BBC portfolio exploded. She took on live sports (FA Women’s Super League for BT Sport, London and Rio Olympics swimming coverage), lifestyle (Holiday Hit Squad, The Instant Gardener), rural programming (Countryfile from 2014 onward), and major live events. Helen’s approachable charm and on-screen versatility established her as a trusted voice, whether presenting Morning Live, hosting Channel 5’s Pennine Adventure, or offering gardening advice on The Instant Gardener.
In recent years, Helen starred in “Strictly Come Dancing,” hosted BBC Radio 5 Live, and voiced Annie Morris in Fireman Sam (2023).
Boundary-Breaking Achievements
Helen’s most famous accomplishments reflect her commitment to adventure and charitable causes:
- Kayaked the 2,010-mile Amazon River in 2010, setting two Guinness World Records, a solo journey and distance covered in 24 hours.
- Completed the Namibian Ultra Marathon (78 miles) in under 24 hours, becoming only the second woman to do so.
- First person to reach the South Pole by bicycle, pedalling through subzero conditions.
- Tightrope walk (150 meters, Battersea Power Station), raising funds for Comic Relief.
- Charity boxing, bunting records, and more, consistently using her platform for good.
Her books, Amy Wild: Amazon Summer and memoir In My Stride, chronicle lessons of resilience and adventure for a broad audience.
Personal Life: Family, Relationships, and Resilience
Helen married rugby league player Richie Myler in 2013. Together, they have three children: Ernie, Louis, and Elsie. Their family life centred on rural Cumbria’s values, although the couple publicly separated in 2022. Following the split, Richie became involved with Stephanie Thirkill; meanwhile, Helen focused on her children, career, and personal growth.
Helen has also openly discussed the challenges of motherhood, debating topics such as children’s play, outdoor lifestyle, and self-care. Her ability to address these issues candidly has won public admiration.
Financial Standing and Net Worth
Helen Skelton’s net worth is estimated at $6 million (2025). Income sources include presenting fees from the BBC and Channel 5, brand collaborations (such as Go Outdoors, Argos, and Lloyds Bank), event appearances, book royalties, and radio broadcasting.
Controversies and Public Perception
Helen’s career has not been without controversy. In 2014, she was groped live on air, a moment she later described as “intimidating,” handled with professionalism and resolve. She faced media scrutiny and sparked debates on motherhood after sharing her views on outdoor parenting, a stance rooted in her rural childhood. Helen’s response to criticism has been consistently positive and authentic.
Authorship & Additional Projects
In addition to television, Helen is a best-selling author and motivational speaker. Her memoir, In My Stride (2023), details life lessons learned from adventures and broadcasting. She regularly hosts live events, awards ceremonies, and panels, bringing warmth and humour to audiences nationwide.
Helen has also contributed to charitable campaigns, including Sport Relief and Comic Relief, cementing her status as a role model beyond broadcasting.
A Lasting Impact
Helen Skelton’s story is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and kindness. Whether navigating the Amazon, reporting from British farmland, or sharing family challenges, Helen inspires audiences through her openness and drive. Her blend of achievement and empathy continues to shape British television and public life.
FAQs About Helen Skelton
What is Helen Skelton’s background and family?
Helen Skelton was born in Carlisle, Cumbria, and grew up on her family’s dairy farm in Kirkby Thore. Her parents are Richard and Janet Skelton, and she has a brother, Gavin.
How did Helen Skelton start her media career?
She began in radio (CFM Radio, BBC Radio Cumbria), moved to BBC children’s news shows, and became the 33rd presenter of Blue Peter in 2008.
What are Helen Skelton’s most notable TV roles?
Helen’s main roles include Blue Peter, Countryfile, BBC Olympic coverage, Morning Live, The Instant Gardener, and Channel 5’s Pennine Adventure.
What world records and achievements has Helen Skelton accomplished?
Helen kayaked the Amazon (setting records), completed the Namibian Ultra Marathon, became the first person to bike to the South Pole, and walked a tightrope at Battersea Power Station for charity.
What is Helen Skelton’s net worth?
Helen’s net worth is estimated at around $6 million, built from diverse media roles, authorship, endorsements, and event appearances.
What is known about Helen Skelton’s personal life?
She married Richie Myler in 2013, separated in 2022, and has three children. Helen has openly discussed family life and the challenges of motherhood.
Has Helen Skelton faced any controversies?
Helen has faced on-air harassment and public debates about parenting. She has addressed these issues constructively and is respected for her resilience.
Has Helen Skelton written any books?
Helen has written a children’s novel, Amy Wild: Amazon Summer, and her memoir, In My Stride, published in 2023.
What recent projects is Helen Skelton involved in?
She continues to host BBC’s Morning Live, radio slots on BBC Radio 5 Live, and recently starred in Channel 5’s Pennine Adventure and BBC’s Lost and Found in the Lakes.
What sets Helen Skelton apart as a presenter?
Helen’s adventurous nature, empathy, and ability to connect with audiences of all ages have made her a unique force in British broadcasting.
Helen Skelton’s narrative is one of adventure, professionalism, and authenticity, from her beginnings on a rural farm to record-breaking expeditions and BBC prime-time stardom. Her drive and sincerity will continue to inspire for generations
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