Thousands of people lined the banks of the River Tyne to watch as HMS Ark Royal returned to her birthplace for the last time. Dani Webb was on board to witness the moment.

AHAND-MADE banner saying “Welcome home Ark Royal” stood out among the crowd of onlookers as the Royal Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier docked in the North-East.

Ever since HMS Ark Royal was built by Swan Hunter workers in Wallsend, North Tyneside, 25 years ago, the people of the region have treated her as one of their own.

As she sailed into Northumbria Quay, in North Shields, yesterday afternoon, thousands of people lining the banks of the River Tyne were determined to make sure her last voyage would be remembered for years.

Emotions were high among the crew as they stood on parade on the flight deck to watch those who had braved the cold and damp conditions to clap, cheer and wave the ship as she returned home.

Many of the 650 crew are from the region, but the significance of HMS Ark Royal’s last stop at a nonnaval UK port was felt by everyone.

The Union Jack and St George’s flag were raised and the vessel’s horn was sounded as normal for the arrival into port, but as everyone knew, this trip would never be repeated.

Captain Jerry Kyd said: “We have a huge connection with Newcastle and North Tyneside and what we have here is what the people here built with their own hands.

“It is a testament to the whole area.

“It is always fantastic and we always get a wonderful reception. It is a poignant moment and very emotional.”

The Government announced last month that HMS Ark Royal will be decommissioned next year.

Her name, which has been part of naval history since 1588, will not be continued once the aircraft carrier has been decommissioned.

Yesterday also signalled the end of Harrier fixed-wing aircraft as four pilots landed on a British navy warship for the last time.

Pilot Lieutenant Chris Roy said: “It was exciting, but we were all very nervous. I think it was because it was the last time. We will never do that again.

“Arriving here has been very special as the navy and Newcastle go hand-in-hand.

This is my fourth time here and we always get a wonderful welcome.”

■ HMS Ark Royal is open to the public between 10am and 3.30pm today and tomorrow.

Nexus, which owns and operates the Shields Ferry service, will run a river cruise on Tuesday for people to watch as she leaves the River Tyne for the final time.

The trip will leave from the South Shields ferry landing at 2.45pm. Tickets are on a first-come firstserved basis from on board Spirit of the Tyne prior to departure and cost £6 for adults and £3 for children.

■ See The Northern Echo on Monday for a report about life on board the ship.