A PENRHYN Bay father who carried a crucifix six miles from Llandudno to Colwyn Bay to generate funds for his daughter’s school raised much more than his self imposed target.

North Wales Pioneer: Garth Butcher and the crucifix. Picture: Allan GeorgeGarth Butcher and the crucifix. Picture: Allan George

Garth Butcher, aged 47, was so angry at the cuts to Conwy’s education budget that he set about raising money for St Joseph's RC School in Colwyn Bay. He built the 14 feet high cross, which weighs 30 kgs, himself and it marks his commitment .

He said: “The march was perfect, there were lots of people about and they were very generous. We haven’t finished counting the money yet, but I know the team collected well over my target of £500, I should think it is probably about £800.

North Wales Pioneer: James Wilkinson. Picture: Allan GeorgeJames Wilkinson. Picture: Allan George

Garth who has a six year old daughter, named Abigail, and an 18 year old son called Gareth, said: “It is all in aid of St Joseph’s primary school, but also to raise awareness of my faith and the Resurrection. I also plan to walk up Snowdon carrying the crucifix for the same reasons at the end of May. I walked from the cenotaph in Llandudno to St Joseph’s in Colwyn Bay

“When I heard about the money being cut for my daughter’s school I thought I should do what I can about it. One of the cuts to the school is going to affect children with special needs and I think that is wrong.”

Mr James Wilkinson, headmaster of St Joseph’s school said: “We are delighted the parents and Garth himself have been so keen to support the school and have taken their own initiatives to try and raise funds and to support vulnerable children in our school

He served as lieutenant in the Royal Welsh reserves.