Tribute to former teacher who 'inspired so many'

A secondary school in Buxton has paid tribute to a "truly exceptional" former PE teacher who has died at the age of 56.

St Thomas More Catholic Voluntary Academy said Antony Gray had worked at the school for 27 years before taking early retirement in 2024.

Head teacher David Redfern said: "Thank you for everything you gave to our school and to the many young people who passed through our doors over the years.

"Your passion, commitment and encouragement inspired so many, and we are certain you will continue to be remembered through the countless stories shared by former students, colleagues and friends for many years to come."

Redfern said Gray joined the academy's PE department in September 1997, before "championing both school and sporting excellence across many High Peak schools" through a sports partnership programme.

He added: "During his years as a teacher, he inspired and shaped the lives of thousands of young people, passing on not only his love of sport and fitness, but also the values that underpin them."

Gray also led "what was probably thousands of extra-curricular clubs, fixtures and events", Redfern added.

Outside of school, the "keen sportsman and fitness enthusiast" competed in gruelling endurance events.

Redfern said Gray, who had been suffering from an illness, completed "numerous Ironman competitions across the globe", travelling as far as Hawaii.

Gray also met his wife, Shelley, while working at the academy, Redfern said in the statement, before the couple welcomed their daughter.

Redfern added: "We remember Antony not only as a fantastic teacher and devoted family man, but as a truly exceptional man who gave so much to others - a champion in every sense of the word, whose legacy will continue to inspire long after the final whistle."

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