Conwy is set lose one of its major summer events to of Rhos-on-Sea following a disappointing response to an appeal for funding.

Following appeals for financial backing falling flat with Conwy’s businesses, voluntary Conwy Pirate Weekend organisers HTC Events are in talks with Rhos-on-Sea to take the event to the town for the same weekend of June 16 and 17.

Chris Williams, event organiser, said: “We’re 99.9 percent certain that the event wont take place in Conwy, I can’t see it happening now barring an 11th hour donation from a very generous backer.

“We’ve given it every single chance, but there just isn’t the financial backing in the town.”

Following a report by The Pioneer earlier this month that HTC events were looking for more businesses to fund the event, which could cost up to £8,000 for the organisers, only two more traders responded with support.

Mr Williams added: “A couple of places really put in the effort, but it still falls well short of what we need. It’s unfair to ask just a few businesses to foot the bill, they shouldn’t do it on their own when most will benefit.

“We still want the Pirate weekend to go ahead and many people have already booked hotels in Conwy for the event, so we will be looking to offer something in the vicinity.”

While the event is unlikely to take place in Conwy town itself, it could potentially retain the name Conwy Pirate Weekend as it remains in county - although organisers want to give any town who take on the event on a chance to rebrand.

Many of the festival’s mainstays - including Hearts of Oak, stalls, pirate ship and pirates - are already booked, meaning much of the event’s organisation is already underway and can be switched without significant challenges.

Toby Tunstall, chairman of the Conwy Chamber of Trade and the event's founder responded: "It will be a great shame if it is to move out of Conwy.

"There aren't any other big summer events on the quay this summer. It's a boost to the town and many of the businesses, particularly the pubs, bringing in plenty of people and creating a fun atmosphere."

The most likely candidate for the event is now Rhos-on-Sea, whose seaside setting and association with Prince Madog make it a suitable alternative to Conwy.

Mr Williams said:“Rhos-on-Sea are open to the idea and are discussing whether the event is the right decision for the town moving forward. We provisionally have everything in place for a festival in Rhos”

“We have to take into consideration the residents and will reassure Rhos shops that it won’t infringe on their trade but will actually be a boost for them and good for the town.”

Following initial discussions, a meeting is expected to take place between HTC Events and members of the Rhos BID strategic planning team and the town’s shopkeepers later this week to discuss plans.