Steve’s Himalayan effort

YOU can do it . . . thumbs-up for Steve Hill from his supportive students

ALL-ACTION deputy head Steve Hill got the thumbs-up from his students as he began the countdown to his toughest-ever challenge.

In 10 days he flies to the Nepalese capital, Kathmandu, on the first leg of a journey that will see him tackle the world’s highest and toughest marathon.

Widely recognised as an inspiration to his year six students at St Joseph’s Primary School, Shaw, Mr Hill takes on a fundraising challenge every year, each one tougher than the last.

He now faces a three-week expedition in which he will trek to the Everest base camp (17,598ft), climb Mount Kala Paterl (18,200ft) and spend three nights at base camp ahead of tackling the Tenzing Hillary Mount Everest Marathon.

Steve said: “It is getting very close now and I’m really looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.

My training has been going very well and I feel in very good condition.

“The children have been fantastic throughout my preparations, giving me lots of support and encouragement. It will be great to share my experiences with them on my return in June.”

The class is raising money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, When You Wish Upon a Star, Macmillan Nurses, the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and the Alzheimer’s Society.

Readers can sponsor Mr Hill at www.justgiving.com/ Stephen-Hill14.