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Primary school pupils have raised more than £7,300 towards their new school playground after taking part in this year’s Caerphilly 2k race.

More than 140 pupils from Twyn Primary School, in Caerphilly town, took part in the race last month, with the money raised going towards upgrading the nursery and reception play area.

It was yet another impressive fundraising campaign from the school. Last year, pupils running the 2k raised £11,000, which helped fund a new junior playground.

The total amount raised this year was revealed to pupils and parents at a celebration event, held at Ten Degrees restaurant on Monday June 2.

Women’s Caerphilly 10k winner Olivia Tsim attended the celebration, where she presented certificates to the pupils and gave them words of encouragement.

The event, and the fundraising, was organised by the school’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA).

Kate Davey, who heads the PTA, told Caerphilly Observer: “It’s amazing that they’re not just running, but they’re also raising money for their school community as well.

“It gives the school a real focus and it’s just incredible the amount of money that these kids raise – it’s amazing.

“For a child to be raising over £300, it’s just brilliant – and it also gives them entrepreneurial skills, and makes them feel really proud of themselves.”

Ms Davey gave a “massive thanks” to the PTA team working behind the scenes to make the fundraising possible: “Whether that’s writing certificates or being there at the event to cheer everybody on; we’re a team, and the PTA has really brought this community together.”

She also thanked Caerphilly-based CAW Sportswear, which sponsored the pupil’s 2k running outfits.

CAW’s Craig Williams, whose children attend the school, said: “This opportunity was something that I just couldn’t let go. Seeing the runners on race day in their tops and in their school colours, it gave that sense of identity and a sense of belonging.

“Everyone at the Twyn gives 100% and they all know why they’re doing it. They all love the school.”

Mr Williams described the school’s headteacher, Lee Thomas, as an “absolute legend” and said: “He’s part of everything, he’s everything that a school wants as a headteacher.

“He gets involved in everything and brings the togetherness, right from the younger ages through to the older kids – no one feels left out.”

Mr Thomas said he was “so proud” of the pupils who took part in the race and “thrilled” by their fundraising efforts.

He added: “They tried their best, looked amazing, and worked as a team throughout.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to Kate Davey and the amazing PTA team who continue to organise such exciting and fun events for the children throughout the year. 

“Our school motto is ‘Learning to Shine’ – and this is one example where together, we shine brightly.”