A well-loved teacher at two Bolton schools is bringing his career to an end, retiring after 41 years.

Barry Leese is retiring after 41 years of working at Bolton St Catherine's Academy and its predecessor school, The Withins High School.

The inspirational PE teacher is now looking forward to a new chapter in his life.

The now 67-year-old started working in Breightmet in 1981 and has dedicated almost all his career to service to his community.

Speaking about his career, Barry said: "I will miss the wonderful staff and pupils but have many happy memories to take away with me.

"I have worked with some fantastic people down the years and I will really miss working with the children at Bolton St Catherine’s."

Gareth Watson, primary head teacher at Bolton St Catherine’s, said: “Barry’s passion to engage children in sport is amazing.  

"He constantly looks for new and innovative sports to engage pupils of all abilities, he truly believes there is a sport out there for everyone.

“During the 41 years, hundreds of children and young people have passed through his lessons and coaching and, may I say, they are all the better for it.

“Barry’s commitment to the profession and the young people of Breightmet is second to none. 

"He will be sorely missed by his colleagues, our young people and their families.”

Christoper Hill, deputy head teacher of Bolton St Catherine's Academy said: "Mr Leese began his teaching career before I was born and it's been an absolute pleasure working with him for 16 of his 41 years.

"I have learned so much about so many new and unusual sports.

"He has had an impact on so many childrens' lives, inspiring many of them to go on to pursue sports later in life, in particular Bolton's own Chris Latham, who went on to claim bronze at the 2018 Commonwealth Games."

Former pupils have been sending messages through Facebook to wish Mr Leese well and share memories of their time with him in school.

And Mr Leese’s message to the children in school, after all those years of teaching was “Listen. Children who listen are the ones who do well in life.”