IT WAS all aboard the SS Pontnewydd yesterday as pupils from a valleys school gathered to christen their new ship-shape outdoor climbing frame.

Dressed in their finest pirate attire, pupils, teachers and governors at Pontnewydd Primary School, Cwmbran, gathered to celebrate the unveiling that ended two years of fundraising for the project which cost around £10,000.

It was christened with a chocolate champagne bottle and children spent the rest of the day learning about pirates in classes.

The nautical-themed design voted for by the children was crafted by parent Alan Harris, who owns Newport carpentry firm Made 2 Measure.

The children then put forward name ideas before they voted for the winning suggestion SS Pontnewydd.

Headteacher Kerry Waters thanked pupils, staff and the school’s parent and teachers association who he said had worked hard to raise the money needed for the project.

This included sponsored times tables tests, non uniform days and jump rope competitions.