HMS Newcastle was bid a fond farewell by its adopted home yesterday as its freedom scroll was returned to the city.

The scroll, presented to the ship's company after the warship was granted the Honorary Freedom of Newcastle following its launch in 1978, will now go on display in Newcastle Civic Centre.

Commander Jeremy Blunden, the ships' commanding officer, handed the document to Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Councillor George Douglas, after the ship's company took part in a freedom parade through the city centre.

HMS Newcastle, the eighth vessel to bear the name, was built at the Swan Hunter shipyard on the Tyne. It will be decommissioned at the end of the year.

As part of its final visit to the city, the parade and civic reception was attended by people involved in her construction.

Commander Blunden said it was a sad day for the crew and thanked the people of Newcastle for their support over the past 26 years.

Coun Douglas said: "It has been a joy to have HMS Newcastle back in her adopted city and I am delighted that so many of her crew have taken part in this final freedom parade.

"It is sad to say goodbye to the ship, which has served both her adopted city and her country well, but we hope our strong links with the Navy can continue in the future."