For the first time in four years, the Royal Navy’s largest ship is set to dock on the River Mersey at the cruise liner terminal to give visitors an insight into life on board.
The HMS Prince of Wales will receive an illustrious Civic Honour Award as part of Liverpool festivities.
The Prince of Wales is set to arrive in Liverpool on December 2nd for a week-long stay. During its visit, the ship’s 800 crew will participate in a series of events, including visits to local schools, community projects, and meetings with civic leaders.
Commanding Officer Captain Will Blackett said: “It is a great privilege to bring the ship to Liverpool – a city with very special historical links to the Royal Navy – and it is a particular honour for us to receive the Freedom of the City this week.
This is the culmination of a very busy autumn training programme.
“The ship’s company deserve recognition for their remarkable efforts, and this visit allows us to show you what we do.”
One of the highlights of the visit will be the Freedom Parade on December 6, where sailors will celebrate receiving the city’s highest civic honour. Thousands of visitors are expected to board the ship when it opens to the public for a ticketed event on December 7 and 8.
The HMS Prince of Wales has top speeds above 25 knots, which was built in sections across the UK, including Cammell Laird in Liverpool, with a total of 10,000 people working on the construction of the ship
Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Richard Kemp, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming HMS Prince of Wales back to Liverpool.
“We are extremely proud that the vessel is affiliated with Liverpool, and during the visit, we will be awarding it the Freedom of the City.
“I know that many local people will be keen to go on board to have a look around and learn more about the important work of HMS Prince of Wales in keeping our nation safe.”
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Featured Image (c) Lucy McMahon
