If successful, an estimated 2,500 competitors will arrive in Anglesey

The council's executive gave the go-ahead on Monday for a bid to host the event jointly with the Ynys Mon Island Games Association.

The cost of staging the games - held every two years and featuring competitors from islands around the world - is expected to be close to �1m.

The council is to seek financial support from the Welsh Assembly Government and the Sports Council for Wales.

PMP Consultants completed a feasibility study on behalf of the council.

Long-term benefits

Aled Roberts, the council's head of leisure and communities, said: "The report by PMP makes reference in particular to the need for a minimum six-lane swimming pool, an additional sports hall, and a stand alone gymnastics facility.

"The cost of this programme is estimated to be �8m-�10m."

He said the Games would significantly benefit the island in the long-run as well as attracting thousands of competitors and spectators.

The local authority plans to set up a committee to oversee the process and enlist professional help to prepare the bid.

The first Games were held on the Isle of Man in 1985 when 15 competitors participated in seven different sports.

The next event in Shetland in 2005 is due to include competitors from 24 islands from all over the world - and from countries as far apart as Greenland and the Cayman Islands.

Two rival bids

Teams will compete in 15 different sports from archery to athletics and golf to gymnastics.

At this year's Games in Guernsey, Anglesey came 13th out of 23 competitors, winning three gold and three bronze medals.

Anglesey has competed since the inaugural event but never hosted the tournament before.

But it is unlikely to have a clear run at landing the prize.

Two rivals bids are expected, from Saaremaa in Estonia and Aland in Finland.