Oldham fundraiser Steve Hill named UK's top 100 most influential

Steve Hill MBE, the deputy headteacher at St Joseph's RC Primary School in Shaw, has been named among the UK's 100 most influential people for 2026. The recognition comes from the Top 100 Influential People list, which highlights individuals excelling in fields from education to business.

Hill, known locally for his extreme fundraising challenges, said he's 'still can't quite believe it' and called the honour 'a huge honour.' His work has taken him from running five consecutive marathons in Mongolia to hiking volcanoes in Central America, all while raising money for good causes.

Through his Team Hill Charitable Trust, Hill has been collecting Easter Eggs for Oldham's Young Carers this season, while his charity recently funded the construction of a water well in Uganda. His upcoming challenges include hauling a pulk sled across Svalbard's frozen wilderness and running the Uganda Marathon for the eighth time.

The recognition highlights how Hill's work bridges education and philanthropy, with his students at St Joseph's watching their teacher take on global challenges that benefit both local and international communities. His inclusion on the list puts Oldham's name alongside other influential figures from across the UK.