The stars have arrived for a popular reality television show that is being hosted at a former Rydal Penrhos pupil’s venue.

Dr Mark Baker, who attended Rydal Penrhos from 1996-2003, has led a group of volunteers with the intent of fixing the historic Gwrych Castle, which overlooks Abergele and can be seen from the A55 expressway.

Restoring the castle is something that has been at the forefront of his ambitions since the age of 11, and Dr Baker formed the Trust at 13-years-old whilst still a pupil at Rydal Penrhos.

The site was recently chosen as the surprise location for this year’s ‘I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!’, which is unable to travel to their usual location in Australia due to restrictions surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.

There was plenty of excitement in the air on Sunday evening as those taking part in the show were revealed, with plenty of familiar faces making their way to the castle via helicopter this weekend.

Among the celebrities involved include record-breaking endurance runner Sir Mo Farrah, Shane Ritchie, journalist Victoria Derbyshire and Coronation Street actress Beverley Pollard.

TV and radio presenter Vernon Kay, former Strictly dancer AJ Pritchard, Jessica Plummer, Jordan North, Paralympic champion Hollie Arnold, and author Giovanna Fletcher were also confirmed.

(Photo: ITV)

The Grade I listed site was left to rot for decades, but the Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust has worked tirelessly over the last decade to restore prominent rooms and gardens across the picturesque area.

Hosting such a high-profile television show will be another incredible boost for the project, which is a testament to Dr Baker’s long-standing passion to return the castle to its former glory.

His efforts have received widespread recognition from across the country, which also saw Dr Baker receive the prestigious Point of Light award from former Prime Minister Theresa May in 2019, which honours shining examples of volunteering across the UK.

The celebrities involved will spend the week familiarising themselves with the castle before the show begins on Sunday 15 November.

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Rydal Penrhos is now able to offer private tours to prospective pupils and their families.

For more information email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or book online at https://rydal.wpengine.com/open-days-visits.