IT WAS not a few months working on a film that earned County Durham man Ron Thompson an "Oscar" in his chosen profession.

Instead, it was a working lifetime as a teacher that led to him being named BT North-East Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School.

The 54-year-old maths teacher from East Stanley earned his Whickham School £2,000 into the bargain.

Mr Thompson, who now lives in Sunniside, was nominated for the award by the school and shortlisted following an inspection from the Teaching Awards. They found that his pupils have a high exam pass rate. The maths department, which he runs, was described as excellent in an Ofsted report.

He said: "Colleagues tell me I have special relationship with pupils and staff and have the ability to motivate pupils. Lessons are never boring. Teachers have a unique opportunity to impact on young lives. Many former pupils from my 32 years at Whickham tell me that I played some part in shaping their ambitions and direction."

School headteacher Neil Morrison said: "This is a well deserved award for Ron who has been an outstanding professional for many years."

The presentation of the cheque for £2,000 will take place in London in October where the winners of all categories from 12 regional finals meet at the Teaching Awards UK Celebration.

The winners are then considered for a further prize of £25,000.