HUNDREDS of Chepstow schoolchildren ran distances of up to 5k as they celebrated the unveiling of their new running track.

Local businesses and community organisations had come together to fund the new 370-metre all-weather track at Pembroke Primary School, which will be used regularly for the school’s new ‘daily mile’ initiative.

Many of the donators were present at the annual Race for Life event last Friday, which saw £140 raised for charity, Cancer Research.

Laura James, of Dragon Sports Wales, led a warm-up before the children headed out onto the track with parents and staff.

According to deputy head teacher Jade Wakley, the youngsters are already making good use of the track during playtime and are using stopwatches to time themselves.

“Its impact can be and has already been transformational, for many of our pupils – improving not only the children’s’ fitness, but also their concentration levels, mood, behaviour and general wellbeing,” said Mrs Wakley.

“Using the track is inclusive, the weather is a benefit not a barrier, no equipment is required and takes only 15 minutes.”

Mrs Wakley hopes that the wider community will be able to use the running track, including local running group the Chepstow Harriers, who helped measure the track during construction and have been “incredibly supportive” in the setting up of the schools mile a day.

She added: “This is just the first stage of an ongoing project. Our next step is to install fitness stations along the track to enable pupils and adults to exercise.

“We hope that we are able to raise the funds through the kindness of local businesses and community groups to make this possible within the next six months.”

The Mayor of Chepstow, Councillor Dale Rooke, was present at the event providing medals to the finishers, along with Governors of Pembroke Primary and the Chepstow Lions

The track was funded by donations from Friends of Pembroke, Chepstow Lions, Tesco, Magor Brewery and the Chepstow Rotary Club.