HMS Albion sets sail for UK exercises before three-month deployment

HMS Albion has sailed out of Devonport to carry out training exercises at sea.

The amphibious assault ship is expected to conduct the training around the UK before embarking on a three-month deployment.

HMS Albion, described by the Royal Navy as its Swiss Army knife because of the range of roles the ship can carry out, is due to be back in Plymouth just before Christmas.

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Sailors and Royal Marines prepared the ship and loaded its landing craft and vehicles before her departure.

Launched in 2001, HMS Albion, an amphibious assault vessel, is one of the Royal Navy's largest ships.

She carries vehicles, machinery and watercraft which the crew use to carry out their duties.

Albion also stores emergency supplies for use in disaster relief missions.