Friends and families welcomed aboard HMS Prince of Wales ahead of major deployment
More than 1,200 people were welcomed aboard HMS Prince of Wales ahead of the aircraft carrier's major deployment of 2025.
The Royal Navy's flagship hosted affiliates and families of the crew while alongside in Bristol.
Guests were given an insight into life on board the ship as well as treated to a performance from the Royal Marines Service Band.
Commanding Officer Captain Will Blackett said: "When we deploy, our families deploy too. It is a team effort – we disappear on adventures overseas whilst our families bear the load at home.
"Today was an opportunity to put all that we do into context; I was able to thank our families for the incredible support they provide, whilst showing them first hand where their loved ones will live and work for the next eight months.
"It is no small thing that we do together."
HMS Prince of Wales will be heading a major carrier strike group deployment to the Far East later this year.
Along with Liverpool, the ship has been affiliated with Bristol since 2018.
Lord Lieutenant of the City of Bristol and Honorary Captain of the Royal Naval Reserves, Peaches Golding, said: "I'm delighted to be here.
"The city of Bristol is affiliated with HMS Prince of Wales. Bristol, a maritime city and this ship, a fifth-generation military warship – it is absolutely fantastic.
"It's great to see all of the families on board. They get to see where their sons and daughters work, live and eat and meet their managers as well.
"The atmosphere has been really wonderful!"
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