THE developer of a former convent in Malvern Link is looking for long-time residents of the town to share their memories of the institution.

Specialist conservation firm Broadway Heritage is in the process of converting the Convent of the Holy Name in Ranelagh Road, which closed back in 1989.

The building became the Day of Salvation Ministries Gospel Centre in 1994, but was sold in 2006 and has been unoccupied since then.

Broadway Heritage which specialises in converting old buildings into homes, has now completed the first six apartments at the former convent.

Managing director Michael Hodges said work on a further fourteen homes was under way and the project was on course for completion next March.

He said: “The site has a fascinating history with the 1879-established convent being home to some 250 nuns in its heyday before eventually closing and later becoming a gospel centre.

“So we felt it would be rather nice to bring it back to life by seeking the memories and recollections of local people whose lives or families had been influenced by either the convent or the gospel centre over the past fifty years.

“Maybe you or a member of your family were employed there or perhaps were helped in some way by the nuns or the gospel centre.”

The writer of the best letter will be invited to cut a ribbon to reopen the development.

Responses should be sent to Nigel Heath at The Cottage, Common Rd, Mitchel Troy, Monmouth NP 25 4JB, or to Nigel@media-Consult.co.uk.