ITS Welsh name translates in to ‘Chair of Idris’ in English, but a dedicated band of supporters certainly aren’t sitting back and taking a break from their fight to prevent a Powys primary school from closing.

Members of the Dolau School Action Group climbed Cadair Idris last weekend as part of their training to take on the Welsh Three Peaks next month. The group – who are determined to prevent the closure of Llanfihangel Rhydithon Community Primary School in Dolau, despite the axe having already been swung by the local authority – will take on the challenge on Saturday, May 14, aiming to topple all three peaks inside 24 hours.

The intrepid explorers will ascend Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), Cadair Idris and Pen-y-Fan, in south Powys, in 24 hours. The Welsh Three Peaks includes a total walking distance of 17 miles (27.4km) and an ascent of 2,334 metres (7,657ft).

That's more climbing than the Yorkshire Three Peaks but over a shorter walking distance and only 666 metres less climbing than the renowned National Three Peaks climb of Snowdon, Ben Nevis and Scafell Pike.

County Times: Cadair Idris' stunning scenery kept the group's spirits up Cadair Idris' stunning scenery kept the group's spirits up

“So, in a couple of weeks, a group of us are completing the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge, to raise awareness and funds (for Llanfihangel Rhydithon Community Primary School),” said group member Sarah Griffiths.

“We are not a group of people who do this type of thing regularly, or ever in my case, we aren't exercise fanatics or super fit, again definitely not in my case anyway.

“We are, however, passionate about supporting this small but perfectly formed school, and its supportive community.

“We will be venturing up Snowdon, Cadair Idris and Pen-y-Fan within 24 hours, and it's not going to be easy.

“Around 17 miles of hill walking, some night walking, sometimes climbing rocks to reach each summit as a team. I feel exhausted thinking about it.

“I know times are tight for everyone at the moment, but if you could spare £1, this will help to spur us on incredibly. We'd be so grateful for anything you can spare. As always, thanks so much for your ongoing support.”

Last Saturday, April 23, a smaller group - including Gemma Bradford, Karon Duggan, Anna Jones, Carl Watkins, Martin Stevens, Beth James and Sarah - tackled Cadair Idris to get an idea of what to expect from the full challenge. As part of another training session, members of the group will also be climbing Pen-y-Fan, in the Brecon Beacons, tomorrow (April 29), at 6pm.

“A night-time training walk up Pen-y-Fan, to see how walking in the dark goes,” said the group advertising the event.

“Training for the Welsh Three Peaks challenge, to raise awareness and funds to keep education in Dolau.

“Anyone is welcome to join our friendly group, and we may even get a sunset.”

To find out more about the challenge or to donate to the cause, visit the action group’s gofundme page at https://www.gofundme.com/f/welsh-3-peaks-to-help-save-dolau-school.