HUNDREDS of people from across the North-East got to see inside the biggest warship in the Royal Navy yesterday.

HMS Ocean is berthed in adopted home Sunderland and welcomed the public on board the massive aircraft carrier for an open day

There were displays including camouflage face painting, demonstrations of survival equipment and a chance to take a look inside a helicopter.

Visitors strolled around the flight deck and enjoyed the view of Sunderland riverside.

Captain Tony Johnstone-Burt said: "We are extremely proud of our highly-successful affiliation with Sunderland.

"The city is going from strength to strength and, in my opinion, is now on the brink of a new era- taking its rightful place on the international stage as one of the North-East's greatest assets.

"HMS Ocean is a great ambassador for the city and we are delighted to fly the flag for Sunderland."

On Saturday, potential recruits were invited on board to consider a career in the Royal Navy.

As part of Meet the Marines young people got the chance to be heroes for the day by abseiling and riding the waves on rigid inflatable boats.

They also saw displays of weapons and unarmed combat techniques.

The ship arrived on Friday and will be in the region until tomorrow.