A deputy head in Shaw who has been crowned the region's best teacher and community leader for his services to education and charity has been appointed a new role in Uganda.

Steve Hill MBE is the deputy head at St Joseph's school in Shaw and an avid charity fundraiser, often completing gruelling physical challenges across the world to raise money for the Team Hill Charitable Trust.

The Trust supports children at home and internationally, from Oldham to Uganda. 

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Towards the end of last year, Steve was crowned the north west 'teacher of the year' and Greater Manchester's 'most loved community leader' at the Educate Awards and I Love Manchester Awards respectively.

Steve has also written a book about his globetrotting adventures, ran several marathons and ultra-marathons across the world, including through the harsh terrains of Costa Rica and Tajikistan in a 'month of marathons' during the summer holidays, and even met the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Also read: From 'magical' moments to the Taliban, Steve Hill reflects on mega marathon challenge

Now, the inspirational teacher has been appointed chairman of the International Board of Trustees for the Uganda Marathon - a marathon which Steve is more than familiar with having completed the challenge five times.

In a letter addressed to Steve on January 1 this year, the founding director of the marathon said he was "delighted" to welcome Steve aboard the non-profit social enterprise, which is Uganda's "largest ever public fundraising event".

The letter continued: "We have seen your great impact in the community; we have known you as a man of integrity, honesty, inspiration, kindness, enthusiasm, and love for others. 

"Uganda has noticed your tireless efforts, and inherent motivation to make a difference to the lives of children, young people, women and others in need."

Reacting to the news, Steve said: "It's a great honour to be invited to take on this role.

"My role will be to help continue the growth of the Uganda Marathon and to build on the past successes, ensuring the marathon continues to have a positive impact on the communities in Uganda.

"I look forward to taking on this role and visiting Uganda again later this year to take on the Uganda Marathon for the sixth time!" 

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