THE principal of Tavistock College will soon be joining the ranks of those magnificent men in their flying machines.
Although John Simes admits that he hasn't a head for heights, he will be looking down on his students from above on July 17 when he takes to the skies in a microlight.
Mr Simes says he is terrified of flying but has decided to take up the microlight challenge to raise money towards the college radio scheme.
The fragile machine will take the head's not insubstantial frame over the school at lunchtime in full view of his pupils.
Media studies students approached their head with a proposal for a college-based community radio station.
'I was so impressed with their plans that I wanted to support them in getting this project off the ground,' said Mr Simes.
'The college joint PTA was also approached and we are hoping that they will be able to make a generous sum available, but I wanted to do my bit too.'
Sponsorship forms have gone out to all students at the college and parents have also been asked to help.
The student who raises the greatest amount of sponsorship will be invited to spend the day as the principal of the college.
Forms are available from the college reception desk.
l The Tavistock College annual Founder's Day service was held recently at St Eustachius, the town's parish church.
The event was well-attended by people from throughout the community, including the mayors of West Devon and Tavistock, teachers, governors, college trustees, local councillors and students.
The service was conducted by the Rev John Rawlings.
It celebrated the history of the college from its original foundation by the Benedictine order of Tavistock Abbey to its present day.
Readings and prayers were led by year 7 students, with contributions from the college students' president, governor Alison Wright and principal John Simes.
The organist was Jonathan Mann and the college choir was led by Rosemary Turner.