Motorpoint has come on board as a corporate sponsor of the Newport Medieval Ship.

The UK’s leading car supermarket, which has an outlet at Spytty in the city, has agreed to help support the work under way by the Friends of the Newport Ship.

The Newport Medieval Ship is a working project conserving the timbers of a large 15th century Basque-built vessel.

Discovered in 2002 on the banks of the River Usk while contractors were excavating for the orchestra pit of the Riverfront Theatre, the solidly-constructed and very well-preserved hull was rescued with a long-term view of reassembly within the city.

Russell Louth, general manager of Motorpoint Newport, said: “We are thrilled to have come onboard with the Friends of Newport Ship as a corporate sponsor. The ship is a fascinating project and as a partner will form a key part of our drive as a long-established local business to engage even more with our community.”

Phil Cox, chairman of the Friends of Newport Ship, said: “We’re delighted to have the support of Motorpoint. The Newport Ship is of international significance and it is the generosity and support of businesses and the local community that helps the project continue to thrive”

For more information on the Newport Ship visit http://newportship.org/