The Queen’s baton began its trip through Powys today, as part of its traditional journey around the commonwealth countries, aiming to inspire people in the run up to the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia.

A selection of local school pupils were invited to Christ College in Brecon to celebrate the baton’s four-day parade around Wales, learning about its cultural history and taking part in relay activities.

The event involved baton bearers Jack Stephens and Rhiannon Barber, both pupils of Christ College, leading their fellow pupils onto the field, where athletes Ryan Spencer Jones and Aled Davies were also welcomed.

Christ College old boy Spencer Jones competed for Wales at the 2010 and 2014 Commonwealth Games and also coaches Paralympic gold medalist Davies.

The celebrations are continuing in Rhayader town centre from 10:50 with a public street parade, joined by 300 schoolchildren, a circus performer and a dragon sculpture.