A popular Hitchin head teacher took part in an extreme sport that attracts adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers, to raise nearly £2,000 for good causes.

Highly-respected Hitchin educationalist Steve Mills, head of Whitehill Junior School, completed his sponsored death-defying bungee jump leap at the weekend to raise much-needed funds for two schools in our area.

As you can see by this thrilling video footage of the event, intrepid Mr Mills leapt more than 100ft into thin air to raise funds for two Hitchin Schools, Whitehill and Highbury Infant and Nursery School.

Speaking to Hitchin Nub News, Mr Mills, the down-to-earth (literally) head of Whitehill said: "The pressure of all that generous sponsorship and the prospect of 242 pupils on Monday looking at me with disappointed 'could do better' eyes meant that not jumping wasn't an option.

"The jump was organised by UK Bungee Club and they were incredible. The last time I experienced a 'bedside manner' like theirs was when I was being put under general anaesthetic.

"That was because it might have been the last face I saw… oh dear… is that what UK Bungee were thinking...?"  

The idea started when Whitehill's Friends' Association (PTA) were given a voucher for a bungee jump and thought it would be fun, and make a little more money for the school if a member of staff were willing to volunteer to do it.

A date had been set for September, but was cancelled out of respect following The Queen's death, with the jump rearranged for Sunday.

Kate Halpin, chair of Friends of Whitehill School, told Hitchin Nub News: "Mr Mills was an absolute superstar.

"No nerves before hand and he jumped without any hesitation. The weather and views were great.

"We are nearly at £2k with our fundraising for the event which is absolutely fantastic." 

Under Mr Mills headship the school and its staff have been renowned for the quality of its teaching - and was hailed by parents during the pandemic for outstanding work.

Whitehill is a two form entry community junior school within the northern area of Hertfordshire County Education Authority, with the school rated 'good' by Ofsted, with eight classrooms in pleasant, purpose-built provision, which was opened in 1969.

Mr Mills added with a smile: "Huge thanks to all the sponsors. Apparently the pupils are suggesting that the next adventure should be a parachute jump. Where do I sign?"

FLYING HIGH: Hitchin head Steve Mills flies through the air. CREDIT: Whitehill School/Kate Halpin

ALLS WELL THAT ENDS WELL: Hitchin head Steve Mills after his terrifying charity leap. CREDIT: Whitehill School/Kate Halpin