MORE than 300 officers and ratings from Sunderland's adopted warship HMS Ocean were greeted by crowds of well-wishers as they exercised their Freedom of the City earlier today (Saturday, May 2).

Led by The Band of HM Royal Marines Scotland, the freedom parade is part of a four-day visit by the Royal Navy's largest serving warship, and her crew were granted the freedom in 2004 and she last visited in May 2012.

See pictures from HMS Ocean's visit to the north east here.

This year the salute was taken by Mayor of Sunderland Stuart Porthouse who welcomed the ship’s company to the city.

Chief Executive of Sunderland City Council, Dave Smith said: "I know a lot of people take great pride in seeing the officers and crew parade through city centre.

"Occasions such as these give everybody the opportunity to show their appreciation of the role of our adopted ship and her company. I’m sure the crew will be made very welcome throughout their visit and I encourage everyone to go along and visit the ship while she is here in our city.”

HMS Ocean will be berthed at the Port of Sunderland's Corporation Quay and is open to the public tomorrow (Sunday, May 3) between 1pm and 6pm and Monday (May 4) from 11am until 5pm.

Members of the ship's crew are also taking part in the Sunderland Half Marathon tomorrow (Sunday, May 3).

Because of limited parking near Corporation Quay and some city centre road closures due to Sunday’s 10K run; drivers are advised to use Sunniside and St Mary's car parks.