Two local primary schools praised for their community work

Two local primary schools have been praised for their work in supporting their communities.

Pupils at both Ysgol Penygelli in Coedpoeth and Ysgol Alexandra were crowned joint runners-up for their efforts in North Wales Police’s ‘Op Bang’ competition.

The annual campaign, which takes place around Halloween and Bonfire Night, gives young people a chance to give back to their community and be in with a chance of winning some fantastic prizes for themselves or their club.

It was also a great way for young people to get together with their friends and help out in their local area

After a tough judging process pupils a Ysgol Penygelli and Ysgol Alexandra were awarded joint fourth place for their work.

During Op Bang the Eco Club at Ysgol Penygelli conducted litter picks in the area and involved the local retired community.

At Ysgol Alexandra pupils created Trick or Treat posters and a Halloween safety comic strip for other children.

The overall winner of the competition was Summerhouse After School Club in Rhyl, with Porthi Dre community group in Caernarfon coming in second and Glan Conwy Rangers third.

Sergeant Beth Jones from North Wales Police Prevention Hub said: “We were delighted to receive so many varied entries to our Op Bang Challenge 2023 this year which ran over Halloween and Bonfire weeks.

“All of our finalists have demonstrated some great community work and should be proud of their achievements.

Pupils at Ysgol Penygelli in Coedpoeth

“We will be running more challenges for groups of youngsters aged 4-18 years this year so if you would like to enter your group look out for the promotions later in the year.

“I am extremely grateful to PACT and North Wales Fire and Rescue for joining us to provide this opportunity”

Business Fire Safety Manager Andy McLaren from North Wales Fire & Rescue Service said: “We were pleased to see so many groups getting involved this year.

“All entrants put a lot of time and effort in completing their entry, with the entries varying so much and demonstrating a real community spirit.

“It was great to work in partnership with North Wales Police and Pact on this competition again this year – coming together to help protect our communities.”

Dave Evans, North Wales Police and Community Trust (PACT) added: “It has been fantastic to see all the work that young people have doing across North Wales as part of the Op Bang Challenge this year.

“It was a privilege to be part of the judging panel and be able to go and meet the winning groups.

“On behalf of PACT and our board of trustees I would like to congratulate all the young people who took part in this year’s Challenge and put so much effort into their community projects.”