PAUL Sturgess travelled the world when he starred for basketball’s Harlem Globetrotters.
But it was a case of Britain’s tallest man spending time closer to home during a visit to Arlies Primary, Stalybridge.
The 7ft 7.26in Sturgess, who wears size 19 footwear, visited 70 countries playing exhibition matches for the sport’s most well-known team.
Since his retirement, Sturgess has become an actor and will star in Avator 2, which will be released later this year, and Lord of the Rings.
Sturgess, 34, who is recognised as Britain’s tallest man by the book of Guinness World Records and seven inches taller than basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal, is also spending time visiting schools to inspire youngsters.
His tour of schools included a day at Arlies Primary, Sturgess, who has played for Cheshire Phoenix in the British Basketball League, where he put on basketball drills for the children as well as showcasing his skills.
Sturgess, who weighs more than 147kg (upwards of 23 stone), said he hope his visit would encourage children to embrace their differences and strive to achieve their dreams.
“It’s very important for me to visit primary schools across the country and show children that someone as different as myself can still be successful. I’ve had wonderful experiences and I try to portray that to the children,” he said.
“To go from professional basketball to being in something as big as Lord of The Rings is something that I’m really proud of.
“It’s something that’s come about from embracing being different, being proud of who I am and using it to my advantage.”