PUPILS from Ysgol Morfa Nefyn have raised £743 by putting on their walking shoes to take part in the Wales Air Ambulance’s Walk Wales castle-to-castle fundraiser.

Walk Wales gave walkers the chance to set themselves a target based on the number of steps they could achieve over a one-month periodfrom 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 or 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.

The school have been promoting healthy living and the importance of being outdoors.

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.

Nia said the pupils are proud of what they have achieved and gave thanks to all who those who have donated to the fundraiser.

She added: “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.”

Louise Courtnage is Wales Air Ambulances’ community fundraiser.

She 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 Brân Castle to?Caergwrle?Castle and have raised an amazing £743.

“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.”

To donate to the school’s fundraiser and support the air ambulance, visit www.justgiving.com/fundrais ing/ysgolmorfanefyn