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Pupils at Ty’n y Wern Primary School, in Trethomas, are preparing to welcome Team GB gymnast Winston Powell as part of a fundraising campaign for new playground equipment.

Teacher Claire Lippiett told Caerphilly Observer how “excited” pupils are to meet Powell, as well as taking part in a morning full of sports and games.

Ms Lippiett continued: “Sports for Champions is a fundraising scheme where we collect money for both us and the athlete who visits.

“We’ll be putting it towards new equipment, whilst a percentage will go to Winston to cover some of his training and travel costs. In return he comes here to run a session with the children. We’re all looking forward to it.”

The school has manged to raise just under £2,000 ahead of Powell’s visit tomorrow morning (Friday November 22), which will start at 8.30am.

“So we’ve got the road closed in the morning and the teachers have prepared games and sports to play, and all the pupils are coming in dressed as their favourite sports or sports star.

“We’ve also got balloons and banners out to welcome Winston who I’m told is even going to be giving us a demonstration as well as talking about his career.”

Ms Lippiett added how those pupils who have raised more £50, of which there are many, will be able to have one-on-one photos with Powell as part of a meet and greet.