Pupils from Ysgol Morfa Nefyn have raised £713 by putting on their walking shoes to take part in the Wales Air Ambulance’s Walk Wales – castle to castle fundraiser.

Walk Wales allowed walkers a chance to set themselves a target based on the number of steps they could achieve over a one-month period from the comfort of their own homes. Each target was the equivalent of a walk between iconic Welsh castles and could be achieved at home, in the garden or during exercise, taking the dog for a walk – and even going up and down the stairs! 

 

The children, aged between four and nine, were set the challenge to walk the virtual distance from Dinas Bran Castle to Caergwrle Castle, which is 16 miles and around 36,000 steps.  

To get their steps in, the children ran a mile a day around the school field and took part in local walks, including a walk to the nearest beach at Porthdinllaen, where they made a beautiful helicopter in the sand to encourage people to donate.

Reflecting on why the school took part in Walk Wales, headteacher Nia Ferris, said: “We saw Walk Wales being advertised and showed it to the school council. We are currently focusing on the children's health and well-being following the recent lockdown periods and exercise and being outdoors is one of our main focus.

“Therefore, the school council decided that it would be a very good idea to take part as it would be beneficial for the pupils and for the community. It is not the first time that we chose the Wales Air Ambulance as a charity for our fundraising activities, as we feel that it is very beneficial for us living in such a rural area.”

Ysgol Morfa Nefyn, in Pwllheli, has received support from the community, as well as parents and families in their fundraising event. The children also received donations whilst on the beach during one of their walks.

The pupils and staff enjoyed the Walk Wales challenge, reflecting on how much they’ve raised headteacher, said: “The pupils are so proud of their achievement and the total amount raised is outstanding. We would like to thank everyone who has donated, ensuring that we could show our appreciation to Wales Air Ambulance.”

In December 2020, the Charity achieved its aim of operating a 24/7 service. Wales now has access to the service’s Emergency Department-standard critical care around the clock and to keep the helicopters in the air, the Charity needs to raise £8 million every year.  

Wales Air Ambulances’, community fundraiser Louise Courtnage, said: “Congratulations to all the children and staff at Ysgol Morfa Nefyn who took part in this year’s Walk Wales challenge. Despite their young age the pupils managed to walk the virtual distance from Dinas Bran Castle to Caergwrle Castle and have raised an amazing £713. They also made a fantastic helicopter in the sand on the beach to encourage others to donate to their fundraiser. Thank you to everyone who took part or donated to the school’s fundraiser, you’re all helping save lives across Wales. Diolch yn fawr.”

There is still time to donate to the school’s fundraiser via its Just Giving page Ysgol Morfa Nefyn - Her Cerdded Cymru / Walk Wales Challenge. www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ysgolmorfanefyn

There are several ways that the public can continue to support the Wales Air Ambulance. These include online donations, signing up to the Charity’s Lifesaving Lottery or by coming up with their own innovative ways to fundraise at home. Further information can be found via www.walesairambulance.com. 

Alternatively, a £5 text-message donation can be made by texting the word HELI to 70711.