A SCHOOL caretaker has just released a second music album after school children helped him to fund the recording.
Sam Millar from Woodford Bridge can often be found cleaning the floors at Coopersale Hall school in Epping, but the father of four swapped his mop for a microphone to lead a much more glamorous lifestyle.
The 46-year-old has just come back from America where he recorded his album Saturday Night, thanks to the help of the school pupils.
He said: "All the kids and parents got together to buy my first album and that helped me go to America to record the second album. I couldn't have done it without them, and that's the honest truth, they have been brilliant and really supportive."
Despite his success, Sam has not forgotten his routes and still continues working as a caretaker part time for the school.
He said: "The kids all know me and I like to have a laugh and a joke with them. I wouldn't want to give that up. It means a lot that they have been behind me."
Having just signed a record dead with CMR Hot Records, Sam hopes his new album will make an impact.
Described as a mix of pop and country music, he said it will appeal to a very wide audience.
He has been trying to break the music industry all his life, but only found confidence from the school children.
He added: "I have always wanted to do this. I always sang with my family when I was younger, and I tried to release a single a long time ago but it didn't get anywhere. I don't think I really believed in myself.
"It was only when I became a caretaker, and I would sing around the school and people started commenting and telling me I was good. The kids loved it and so did the parents and teachers. It was the school which gave me the push I needed to do this."
Sam has also had a little help from the Christian Drama Resource Centre in Loughton which leant him the costumes to use for the front of his album cover.
He said: "I'm overwhelmed by the support I have had from the community here and it's so nice to think that everyone is behind me and wants me to do well."
Following the trip to America, Mr Millar is set to reunite with the school pupils at their sports day, where he has promised to sing a few songs.
He added: "Everyone seems to love the idea of a caretaker who sings and my music is really fun so the kids love it.
"I can't wait to see them all next week, they're brilliant and it is thanks to them I am living my dream."
To hear Sam's music visit his website sammillar.com
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