HMS Prince of Wales sailors march through Liverpool as public viewing cancelled
Hundreds of sailors from HMS Prince of Wales have marched through the centre of Liverpool to celebrate the aircraft carrier's ties to Merseyside.
Led by the Band of HM Royal Marines Scotland, nearly 800 Royal Navy personnel marched in a short square route.
This took them through the heart of the city, passing Liverpool Town Hall where Lord Mayor Councillor Richard Kemp and the carrier’s Commanding Officer Captain Will Blackett took the salute before returning to the ship for an official reception.
A crowd of around 5,000 gathered to watch the parade which came after the ship received the Freedom of the City - the highest civic honour - in a service at Liverpool's Parish Church.
Only 200 sailors took part in the formal act, which sees an ornate scroll presented - although it was too large to parade, meaning a casket took its place.
Captain Blackett said it was a "rare moment" to show the public what the sailors can do, as "most of what we do is over the horizon, not in the public eye".
"For my ship's company this is also a reward for 11 months of really hard work and richly deserved," he said.
"Liverpool's relationship with the Royal Navy is deep rooted and it is an absolute privilege for us all to be part of the next chapter."
"Liverpool has been an incredible host. We have never felt so welcome.
"We will proudly take the history, culture and spirit of Liverpool with us to the furthest corners of the globe. The Prince of Wales is your ship."
Every member of the ship’s company received a Liver bird pin badge, which they wore on their working rig during their visit to the city.
It was a gift from the City Council and the Lord Mayor, who told sailors they were honorary Scousers, in recognition of their efforts promoting and upholding the Liverpool name.
The ship was due to be open to the public on 7 December but, due to an Amber Weather Warning for strong winds, this has had to be cancelled.
"We are not going to be able to get you on board tomorrow," said Capt Blackett.
"It's unsafe and we're going to have cancel ship open to visitors on Saturday.
"The weather does improve on Saturday night and we are still planning to open the ship on Sunday.
"For those of you who have tickets on Sunday, we'll look forward to seeing you on board."
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