Get Up Close And Personal With Nelson's Betrothal Ring This Valentines Day!

A betrothal ring Vice Admiral Lord Nelson presented to his mistress on the eve of his departure to his final battle is to go on show outside its display case for Valentine's Day.

Lord Nelsons affair with Emma Hamilton shocked society in the early 19th century.

He presented Ms Hamilton with the ring in an imitation wedding ceremony held at Merton parish church on September 13 1805.

This was the night before he left for the Battle of Trafalgar, where he was killed on board HMS Victory on October 21.

The fede gold ring is on displayed at The Nelson Gallery at the National Museum Of The Royal Navy.

The ring, featuring two clasped hands, was inspired by a design which dates back to Roman times.

Visitors will be able to get a really close look at these details between 1.30 - 2.30 on Valentines Day when the ring will be out of its display case.

Rebecca Drummond, curator at the museum, said: "Nelson was still married to Lady Nelson, so it was a private ceremony in Merton, close to where they lived, openly, together.

"He wrote a passionate love letter to her from on board HMS Victory just before the battle.

"The ring is usually displayed behind glass so we can't think of a better way to mark Valentine's Day than by letting visitors get up close and personal to it for one day only."