A PE teacher from a Haughton Green school has been rewarded by his local MP for his tireless work through the pandemic.

Ryan Bardsley, who teaches at St John Fisher RC Primary School, was given a Citizen’s Award by MP Andrew Gwynne last week.

He was nominated after he kept children engaged in sports and PE throughout the various lockdowns over the last year.

He also went one step further and organised a Masked Singer Competition to keep the children entertained during the holidays.

Ryan had no idea that he was going to be presented the award by Gwynne and Denton South councillor Claire Reid.

The awards were started last year by MP Gwynne and aim to thank those in the community who go above and beyond to support those in need.

Speaking after awarding Mr Bardsley, Mr Gwynne said: “Mr Bardsley is so deserving of this award. 

“So many people have nominated Mr Bardsley and have expressed their gratitude for his exceptional hard work over the last year. 

“When Councillor Claire Reid and I turned up to present him with the award, I think he was pretty surprised. It was a real-life ‘This is your life’ moment. 

“Well done Mr Bardsley! Your dedication and your willingness to go above and beyond has made all the difference to your pupils. You truly are an inspiration.”

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