The headteacher of Llanidloes High School is conquering his fear of heights and jumping out of a plane from 10,000 feet to raise vital cash.

Daniel Owen is raising money for a brand new Pupil Support ‘Cymorth’ Centre and an extension of the school’s Autistic Spectrum Centre.

“I’m not sure whether I’m more nervous about the jump or exceeding the maximum weight at the weigh in,” Mr Owen said.

“Up until now, my idea of taking a walk on the wild side has been playing speed scrabble with my wife while watching The Sound of Music.

“I’m hoping the prospect of creating a much-needed new support centre for our marvellous pupils will carry me through an afternoon of unbridled, joyless terror, plunging towards the earth at 125mph.”

Margot Jones, chair of governors at Llanidloes High School, said: “Despite receiving the accolade of being named one of the top 10 state schools in Wales by the The Times for the past two years, we refuse to stand still.

“The governing body and our wonderful team of staff are determined improve the school still further for the sake of the children entrusted to our care.

“We have an inspirational vision to create state-of-the-art support facilities that cater for pupils most in need of literacy, numeracy, digital, social and emotional support in a nurturing learning environment.”

To sponsor Mr Owen’s jump, go to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/scarystuff.

See this week’s Machynlleth & Llanidloes paper for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now