A GRUELLING fundraising challenge has raised close to £4,000 for a Monmouthshire primary school.

Staff and parents at Cross Ash Primary School took part in the South Wales Three Peaks Trial on 25th March, attempting to raise money for the conversion of the school’s existing library into two separate learning areas suitable for group study.

Deputy head teacher at Cross Ash Julie Willis said: “The day was amazing from start to finish, the sun shone and their spirits remained unbroken as they pushed themselves to the limit over the long, steep course.

“There were moments of despair as they viewed yet another ridiculously steep ascent; moments of hilarity as they helped each other along the way and moments of elation when they finally completed the course.

“The thought of the generosity of all parents, friends and relatives kept them going through the more difficult moments and they thank all those for giving so generously to this really important cause.”

The Just Giving Page will remain open for a few more days, with the current total very close to the £4,000 point if Gift Aid is included.