PUPILS and staff at a village school have been recognised for their work championing the Welsh language.

Ysgol Melyd in Meliden has been presented the Cymraeg Campus Bronze Award by advisory teacher for Welsh in Denbighshire Gareth Williams, in recognition of the school’s commitment and achievements in developing Welsh across the school.

The Cymraeg Campus initiative is for English medium schools to embrace Welsh language and culture throughout school activities.

After beginning the scheme in the previous school year, the initiative was steered by a five strong 'Criw Cymraeg' or Welsh crew group comprising year six Ellie-Mai Cope, year five Nia Benson, year four Fearne Ward, year three Andre Stojkovski and year two Holly Charnley.

Ellie-Mai said: “Being in the Criw Cymraeg is very inspiring. I see the younger pupils developing every week in their use of the Welsh language."

Andre agreed: “I like to help my peers speak more Welsh in school.”

Working alongside assistant headteacher Lucy Lea, the group encouraged the use of Welsh in school and on trips by giving out ‘Tocyn Iaith’ - language rewards - which were added up each week and awarded to each of the school's three houses.

Mrs Lea said: "We're so very excited about winning the award.

"The Criw Cymraeg have worked so hard to follow the Welsh language charter, and to ensure both staff and pupils are doing their utmost to raise standards within this area. Even the lunchtime supervisors are on board, giving Welsh speaking pupils ‘Tocyn Iaith’ during lunchtimes.

"The Criw Cymraeg are now very much looking forward to their next challenge, the Cymraeg Campus Silver Award."