An internet personality with almost three million YouTube subscribers returned to his childhood home near Hitchin yesterday to meet kids at his old primary school.
Oli White runs a YouTube channel on which he can be seen eating a cactus, pretending to burgle his parents and much more.
The 22-year-old grew up in Pirton – and yesterday he was back at the village school to meet the children, share lunch and have a go at teaching a class.
He told the Comet: “I was blown away when the school called to invite me back to host an assembly.
“To be honest, I was a little nervous but I couldn’t wait to catch up with everyone and hear about what they’ve been up to.
“I have so many good memories of Pirton School, the dinner ladies, the teachers and all the friends I made. I’ve been very lucky in my career since leaving school and it was such an honour to be able to share my experiences with the school.
“I had a great time meeting everyone, getting involved in the classes and hanging out on the playground. Seeing some of my old teachers and being treated to a school lunch were some of my favourite moments.”
Oli, a self-described “big kid”, among other things signed some of his books with a note and hid them around the school.
His mum, who was celebrating her birthday, joined him in the canteen to share the school dinner of chicken, stuffing and veg.
Pirton School acting head Sonia Fenner said: “It was a really exciting morning for the children to meet a past pupil who told two inspirational stories, and a great opportunity for them to see someone that they’ve known through the internet brought to life, if you like.
“It was great to celebrate our local celebrity, with past links to our school. The highlight of it all was seeing how excited and interested the children were to ask him questions.
“We were delighted to welcome Oli back, and we hope it’s a link we’ll be able to forge further in the future.”
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