ABERSYCHAN School council members took the opportunity to raise funds for the Ken Jones Statue appeal.

The school council undertook a three and a half mile sponsored walk from Blaenavon to their school in order to raise money for the appeal to erect a statue of rugby legend Ken Jones in Blaenavon.

Teachers, Barrie Evans and Rob Taylor, accompanied the pupils on the walk that took an hour and 40 minutes.

The school council had heard about Ken Jones' impressive rugby and athletics career from Mr Evans. They were especially impressed with his winning try for Wales against New Zealand in 1953 and his Olympic Silver Medal for the 4x100m relay in the last London games in 1948.

They were very keen to get involved with the appeal and raise as much money as possible towards the statue to commemorate Ken Jones' achievements.

Mr Taylor said: "In the last 15 minutes of the walk, the weather did turn and we got a bit wet but their spirits remained high. They all did brilliantly."

Year 11 representative, Alex Bond, collected £36 and although donations are still coming in the School Council hope to raise in excess of £100.

hayley.mills@gwent-wales.co.uk WE ARE appealing for local people to get involved to make the dream of a tribute to Ken Jones a reality.

If you are planning to organise an event to raise money for the appeal, we want to hear from you.

Email hayley.mills@gwent-wales.co.uk or call Hayley on 01633 777 278.

To donate to the appeal, cheques need to be made out to 'Ken Jones Memorial Fund' and posted to the care of Lewis Freeman at 52 Thornhill Close, Upper Cwmbran, Torfaen, NP44 5TQ.