Former Rydal Penrhos pupil Dr Mark Baker’s project to renovate a prominent North Wales landmark has hit national headlines in a big way.

The Rydal Penrhos alumnus 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 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.

This has caught the eye of television producers, who have earmarked the castle for the next series of the hit show ‘I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here’ in November.

The popular reality series usually takes place in Australia, but with the coronavirus pandemic preventing this, they have taken the decision to hold the event on home soil.

According to multiple media reports over the weekend, Gwrych Castle is the site believed to have been chosen for the upcoming series, which sees celebrities live together in an unfamiliar setting and take part in challenges that take them out of their comfort zone.

If the reports are officially confirmed in the future, it would be a significant boost for Dr Baker and the Trust.

The trust bought the castle in 2018 and a substantial effort from Dr Baker and the Trust enabled its grounds to be opened to the public soon after.

Dr Baker’s project has been aided by Rydal Penrhos pupils over the years, with the school’s community action days seeing various year groups spend time at the castle assisting with the clean-up project.

This is just one amazing success story regarding community involvement regarding pupils old and new from Rydal Penrhos over the years, which is all part of the school’s ethos.

Anyone that wishes to book a socially distanced tour of the school should email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com.

Alternatively, call 01492 530155 or book online here.