Britain’s biggest aircraft carrier is to receive the Freedom of Liverpool at a special service on Friday 6 December.
It will take place during a week-long visit by HMS Prince of Wales to the City that she is affiliated with.
The service – which is invitation-only and not open to the general public – is taking place at Liverpool Parish Church on Chapel Street.
There will be hymns, readings and prayers from the Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside, Mark Blundell, and the vessel’s Commanding Officer, Captain Will Blackett RN.
The service, which starts at 12.30pm, will be followed by a march through the city centre by some of the 800-strong ship’s company from around 1.45pm, falling out at the Pier Head.
Chapel Street will be closed from 12.30pm until the end of the march, with other road closed on a rolling basis.
Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Richard Kemp, said:
“Liverpool has always had a significant connection with the Royal Navy, particularly during times of conflict, including the pivotal Second World War Battle of the Atlantic.
“Those strong links remain today, and the City acknowledges the role the ship and her company play in both the defence of the nation and within the local community.
“This week I have had the privilege of going on board to unveil a Penny Lane sign, which is just one of several reminders of the ship’s association with the city. I have also witnessed first-hand a demonstration of her capabilities and the skill of her crew.
“It is an honour to admit the vessel to the Freedom Roll of Associations and Institutions.”
Commanding Officer of HMS Prince of Wales, Captain Will Blackett RN, said:
“It is a great honour to receive the Freedom of the City of Liverpool on behalf of HMS Prince of Wales.
“The City has such an amazing maritime history – notwithstanding Liverpool’s vital role as a commercial port, it is important to recognise that Royal Naval warships have been constructed here since as far back as the 18th Century.
“This is an incredible City with national duty and service etched into its heart and I see a poignant link between the duty performed by Liverpool and the duty our sailors hold in the Royal Navy.
“Our deep link with this fine City is a real source of inspiration and pride which will carry us through the challenges ahead.”
