ROYAL Navy warship HMS Portland will anchor in Tor Bay this weekend, the first official visit by a naval vessel for a number of years.

The visit by the 4,800 tonne Type 23 frigate is part of its sea training.

Under the eye of the RN training staff, every aspect of Portland's procedures and routines will be scrutinised over Saturday and Sunday.

A RN spokesman said: "The crew will be judged on handling a real life series of public events, including entertaining local students and civic dignitaries, hosting presentations and capability demonstrations and allowing the general public to visit the ship."

While at anchor in the Bay, the ship will be open to the public on Sunday, October 12, from 11am to 4pm.

The navy spokesman said: "This is a chance for visitors to learn more about life on the ocean waves and what it is like to live and work onboard a warship."

The boat 'Liberty Lass' will run from Beacon Quay pontoon bridge to the ship in the Bay.

Admission is free but access will be via a ticket scheme. Tickets are available from the Tourist Information Centre in Torquay.

The commanding officer, Commander Tim Henry, will host a lunch for local and civic dignitaries on Saturday and among the guests will be the mayor of Torbay, Nick Bye, and the chairman of Brixham Town Council, Chris Bedford.

The spokesman said: "Undoubtedly one of the highlights of the visit for the 190-strong crew will be a chance to host groups from schools throughout the region as well as potential recruits to the Royal Navy from the Devon area.

"Students from colleges including North and South Devon and Paignton will be given a unique demonstration of the capabilities of HMS Portland, one of the Royal Navy's most advanced warships.

"The aim of the demonstration is to both entertain and educate. A warm naval welcome is combined with a ship's tour which involves a series of 'live' stances telling an operational story, for example boarding a suspect vessel in a high threat environment and explaining the ship's role and procedures in carrying out this mission."

Cmdr Henry said: "This visit to Torbay is an essential element of the meticulous preparations needed prior to our forthcoming deployment.

"The training is designed to test the ship's company to its limits, both physically and mentally, and prepare us to successfully respond to all situations, whether it is defending ourselves, boarding a merchant ship in support of United Nations sanctions or carrying out humanitarian assistance in the event of natural disasters.

"And we are delighted we are able to combine this very important training with hosting the people of South Devon, and look forward to welcoming them on board over the weekend."