ELLESMERE Port cadets had the opportunity to get an up-close look at the latest ship of the Royal Navy, the HMS Prince of Wales.

A total of twenty-four lucky cadets from five Squadrons across Merseyside and Cheshire including 146 (Northwich), 1074 (Ellesmere Port), 1913 (Knotty Ash), 1982 (Huyton) and 2359 (Woolton) Squadrons were given a tour of the aircraft carrier by members of the ship's company which included several areas of the ship not available to members of the public during their tours. These included the ships Medical Centre, Operating Room, Control Centre and the Flight Deck.

The Air Cadets who toured the ship were amazed by the size of the ship and by what they were able to see during their time on board, with several commenting that it was a “mind blowing” experience and certainly one that they will remember for the rest of their lives.

Flying Officer RAFAC Mark Armitage BA (Hons) said: "Merseyside Wing Air Cadets have been very privileged to have been given this chance to see HMS Prince of Wales and are thankful to the Royal Navy for their consideration."

To find out more about Merseyside Wing Air Cadets, visit www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets