A FREE concert will be held in Conwy next month to mark the completion of the conversion of a ship to be sent from the town to Madagascar.

Island Reach was purchased by Christian charity Youth With a Mission (YMAM), and then sailed to Conwy from Greenock, with the aim of making it a more “liveable hospital ship”.

The boat, which has been completely overhauled by a team of volunteers, is a 24-metre ex-naval, two hold, stores tender.

North Wales Pioneer: The boat's new GP unitThe boat's new GP unit (Image: Newsquest)

She is due to embark on the journey to Africa on April 9 – prior to that, a special concert will be held at St Mary’s Church on March 2 at 7pm.

This free concert will feature performances from soloist Anthony Stuart Lloyd, and male voice choir Côr Meibion Maelgwn.

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North Wales Pioneer: Island Reach at anchor off Anglesey during sea trialsIsland Reach at anchor off Anglesey during sea trials (Image: YWAM)

A retiring offering is available at your discretion, while the ship, currently located at Conwy Quay, will be open to visit from 12-5pm on March 2.

Talks will also be delivered at the concert about how the project came about, and the process that it has been through since it was delivered to Conwy in 2021.

North Wales Pioneer: The boat's new dental unitThe boat's new dental unit (Image: YWAM)

Tea and coffee will also be available at the church after the concert.

YWAM Ships is the legal owner of Island Reach, but the principal of YWAM Maritime Academy is managing this project in Conwy.

Volunteers and members of Coleg Llandrillo have also helped repair and update essential mechanical, electrical and electronic equipment on board to make it fit to sail to Madagascar.