Broadcasting Career Beginnings

Before rising to national prominence, Helen began her media career working in the newsroom at CFM Radio. She also contributed to various programs at Border Television. Her first major broadcasting role was as a breakfast presenter for BBC Radio Cumbria in 2005, where she became one of the youngest presenters to work for the BBC network at that time.

Breakthrough with Blue Peter

In 2008, Helen Skelton became the thirty-third presenter of the long-running BBC children’s television program Blue Peter. She remained with the show until 2013 and was widely praised for her adventurous spirit and commitment to charitable causes. During her tenure, she participated in numerous special segments, including coverage of the Wimbledon tennis championships.

Adventurous Feats and World Records

Helen Skelton gained significant public attention for her physically demanding charitable stunts. In 2011, she walked a 150-meter tightrope suspended between two chimneys 66 feet above the ground to raise money for Comic Relief. She also holds two world records in kayaking: the longest solo kayak journey, covering 2,010 miles down the Amazon River in 2010, and the longest distance kayaked by a woman in 24 hours.

Television and Sports Coverage

Following her time on Blue Peter, Helen transitioned into sports broadcasting. She became a presenter for live FA Women’s Super League football, expanding her reach into mainstream sports journalism. Her work in sports television has been widely regarded for promoting women’s football and broadening the visibility of female sports presenters.

Personal Life

Helen Skelton was married to rugby league player Richie Myler. The couple has two sons: Ernie, born in 2015, and Louis, born in 2017. As of 2022, the couple has separated but continue co-parenting their children.