CHEPSTOW School is looking to raise money to send their year nine football team to a tournament in Dublin next month.

The Under-14 side will travel to Ireland to compete against the school champions of England, Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland from May 20-22.

However, they need to raise just over £5,000 to fund travel and accommodation costs as well as playing kit for the 16-strong squad.

Coach Jamie Goddard said they have received no funding from Welsh government and sporting bodies despite schools from other home nations receiving such funding.

According to head teacher Claire Price, within 24 hours of the team’s win the school had raised a third of the costs thanks to donations from friends of the school.

The cause has also been sponsored by former pupil Mark Gardiner, who saw the school’s fundraising appeals on Twitter.

“Chepstow School is a community school and the way that the community have got behind our students is overwhelming,” said Mrs Price.

The side became Welsh champions on March 20, the first team in 19 years from South East Wales to achieve this.

In his 17 years at the school, Mr Goddard believes this current crop are the best he’s worked with. “The boys have played exceptionally well, and show great team spirit,” said Mr Goddard.

“They never gave up, and their focus, determination and hard work are an absolute credit to them.”

Mr Goddard is also keen to get in touch with anyone from Croesyceiliog School who played in the tournament.

“It would be great for them to give the boys some tips ahead of the tournament,” added Mr Goddard.

The success of the team is made even more poignant since they are playing in memory of Harrison Marshall, who tragically died aged 11 in 2013. Harrison was due to start his second week in Year 7 and would have been a part of the current side. The school honour his memory every year with a Year 7 football tournament, with all funds raised going to a chosen charity.

The side flying out to Dublin are also keen to feature their friend’s name on their kit. Mrs Price said: “The fact that the team will play in Harrison’s memory is particularly humbling; they illustrate our values of respect and kindness for the Chepstow School family.”

To support the team, visit their fundraising page at gofundme.com/293h34tg