BARRY Comprehensive School’s Under-14 rugby team set themselves the challenge of pedalling the distance from Barry to Barcelona to raise funds for their rugby tour to Spain.

Thirty-five boys from the school pedalled the 765 miles on 10 exercise bikes outside the Holiday Inn, Cardiff, as crowds flocked past to watch the Wales versus South Africa game on Saturday, November 26.

The event was boosted by the appearance of a host of special guests and celebrities.

Former Wales and Lions back row Martyn Williams started the challenge and joined in with the pedalling

During the five hours the challenge took to complete, former Welsh Internationals Nigel Davies, Jason Strange and Rhys Williams as well as TV celebrities John Inverdale and Rick O’Shea generously gave their support.

The highlight of the day for the boys was the appearance of former World Player of the Year and great entertainer Shane Williams, who posed for photos and took a turn on a bike.

Mr Manley, event organiser from Barry Comprehensive School, said: "I’d like to thank all of the ex-rugby players and celebrities as well as the students, their parents and school colleagues who gave up their time to help us raise money for our rugby tour to Barcelona.

"Special thanks must go to CJCH Solicitors for kindly sponsoring our t-shirts and to Mr Richard Platts, manager of the Holiday Inn, Cardiff for allowing us to hold the event outside the hotel and for all of his hospitality during the day.

"As a group we have completed many fundraising events for the tour and we would be delighted if any local companies would like to help us with sponsorship or support”.

Please contact Mr Manley at the school if you would like to find out more.