The Royal Navy's newest aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales has set sail for from her home port for the very first time to travel to Liverpool.
Crowds lined the sea walls of Portsmouth Harbour to wave off the 65,000 tonne warship as she left for a week-long stay here where she is due to arrive on February 28.
Last week, nearly 13,000 free tickets were given away online to the public to go on board the ship when it docks on Liverpool's waterfront on February 29 and March 1.
Captain Darren Houston, the commanding officer of the ship, said: "My ship's company and I are hugely excited about our first visit to Liverpool.
"This is an opportunity for us to cement our bond with the city as one of the newest warships in the Royal Navy's fleet.
"We're looking forward to hosting people from the local community on board during our time alongside, and I know we will receive the warmest of welcomes."
Deputy mayor and Liverpool City Council's cabinet member for culture, tourism and events, Cllr Wendy Simon, said: "It's a huge coup for Liverpool to welcome its affiliated ship HMS Prince of Wales on its inaugural, history-making visit.
"The sheer scale of the ship will be a real spectacle on the River Mersey and is set to attract national and international attention, drawing massive crowds.
"Maritime events always prove to be hugely popular in Liverpool, and this will be no exception.
"Once again our world heritage waterfront will provide the incredible backdrop for a striking vessel, and we look forward to welcoming her at the end of the month."
