FUTURE Islwyn High School pupils have completed a section of an 800-mile charity baton relay ahead of the opening of their new £25 million school next year.

Pupils from both Pontllanfraith and Oakdale comprehensive schools carried the baton from the former Oakdale Colliery site to Abertillery for the event organised by contractor Willmott Dixon.

Guests including the leader and chief executive of Caerphilly County Borough Council, councillor Keith Reynolds and Anthony O’Sullivan, gathered at the site to wave off the ambassadors.

They also took the opportunity to tour the site where the new Islwyn High School is to be built ahead of opening in September. The next phase of the ambitious build will include the installation of the steel frame which will see the building take shape in the coming weeks.

Cabinet member for education and lifelong learning, councillor Rhianon Passmore, said: “It is fantastic that the pupils are able to get so involved in the build of their impressive new school.

“Seeing the grand plans taking shape is an exciting time and the state-of-the-art facility will enhance the learning experience for both pupils and the staff as part of the 21st century schools programme.”

Minister for education and skills, Huw Lewis said: “The facilities at Islwyn High will be real asset to the young people of the area and will provide the ideal environment for them to achieve their full potential.”

Willmott Dixon Wales and West will be completing the 800 mile sustainable baton relay in aid of 12 chosen charities. The challenge is to take a baton through every site and office in the region by running, walking, canoeing, horse riding, and even rollerblading.