Port of Newport becomes first corporate sponsor of the Friends of Newport Ship

The Port of Newport is helping preserve one of the most important examples of the city's proud maritime history by becoming the first corporate sponsor of the Friends of Newport Ship.

Associated British Ports, owner and operator of the Port of Newport, is backing the appeal to raise awareness and funds for the care of the best preserved fifteenth Century ship ever found.

The landmark project aims to house the architectural gem in a purpose-built museum for future generations to enjoy.

Discovered miraculously preserved in the riverbed near ABP's Port of Newport in 2002, the vessel is the most complete surviving example of a ship from the fifteenth century and is of international importance. It was probably one of the larger ships of the period and capable of carrying a cargo perhaps in excess of 200 tons, well below a typical 40,000 tonne vessel calling at the port today.

Chris Green, Assistant Port Manager ABP Newport, said: "We are proud to be a supporter of the Friends of Newport Ship and help preserve this exciting discovery as an important piece of Newport's history. We are looking forward to seeing this remarkable ship on display for all to enjoy.

"The port is today a thriving business linking the region with markets in the UK and abroad. This discovery demonstrates that Newport has been a vital trading gateway for centuries and it is an important piece of our maritime history".

Phil Cox, Chairman of The Friends of Newport Ship, said: "We have set ourselves an ambitious target of raising £100,000 for the forthcoming year to take us towards our goal of reconstructing the ship in a purpose-built museum in Newport.

"We need to tell more people about our ship, people who will support our project, who will involve their organisations and inspire others to help us achieve our target.

"ABP's new connection to The Friends of Newport Ship is the first formal corporate sponsorship that we have achieved, and we hope that it will encourage other organisations to come forward".