A LOCAL running legend who helped to put Hyde on the map with his achievements now has a permanent tribute in the town.
Dr Ron Hill MBE is being remembered by the largest mural at any train station in Greater Manchester.
The artwork has been unveiled at Hyde Central station.
It was commissioned by the South East Manchester Community Rail Partnership, in collaboration with Ron’s family and local partners, and with support from rail operator Northern.
Ron won gold medals in the marathon at the 1969 European Championships in Athens and the 1970 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh.
He also founded his own running clothing brand in Hyde in 1970, the headquarters of which remains in the town to this day.
Ron was presented with Tameside’s Freedom of the Borough accolade in 2020, before he died the following year at the age of 82.
Since then, there has been a strong desire locally to pay tribute in the form of a mural or statue.
Artist Lionel Stanhope has also created murals for a number of stations in south London and his style of work was particularly suited to the space, with many of his murals being painted directly onto brickwork in his distinctive railway heritage style.
Local MP Jonathan Reynolds, who represents Hyde in Parliament, said: “Absolutely love this new mural celebrating Hyde and the late Ron Hill – the stuff civic pride is made of.”
Hyde Newton councillor Peter Robinson is the vice chair of South East Manchester Community Rail Partnership.
“I found it fascinating watching the artists – Lionel Stanhope and his daughter Ruby – working on the Hyde Central mural,” he said.
“From laying the base coat, the mapping out of where the lettering was going, it looked more like a scientific experiment to the actual painting.
“I was very pleased that Steve Hill, Ron’s son, came along and spent time speaking with Lionel. I have had such positive feedback on the finished mural, which is the largest in Greater Manchester.”
Craig Harrop, regional director at Northern, added: “This fantastic mural is a fitting tribute to a man who will always be remembered as a local hero in Hyde.
“We’re proud to work closely with partners such as South East Manchester Community Rail Partnership, who are committed to improving stations for our customers.”
Hyde Central station is adopted by a group of volunteers, the Hyde Loop group, which has supported the project.
The group has also installed artworks on the platforms and carries out regular litter picks. They also hope to add planters to the station approach and create a community space within the station building.
Anyone interested in getting involved with the work on the Hyde Loop group – which supports Hyde North, Hyde Central and Woodley stations – can email friendsofhydeloop@gmail.com
The South East Manchester Community Rail Partnership works across 30 stations supporting station volunteer groups and working with train operators such as Northern to promote rail travel.