HMS Dauntless home after milestone deployment

HMS Dauntless, a Royal Navy Type 45 Destroyer, arrived back in Portsmouth this morning

Two warships have returned to the UK from a major deployment on the other side of the world.

Crowds began to gather early on Sunday to welcome Type 45 destroyer HMS Dauntless home to Portsmouth naval base in Hampshire at about 08:15 GMT.

Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales, with 1,600 personnel on board, came alongside at 13:15.

Thousands of families have been lining the jetty for the biggest naval homecoming in 20 years.

More than 4,000 British personnel took part in Operation Highmast, visiting countries including Singapore, Australia and Japan.

The operation was an eight-month deployment that has been touted as strengthening the UK's defence partnerships, boosting jobs and exports, and making the UK more secure at home and strong abroad.

UK defence secretary John Healey said: "The safe return of our Carrier Strike Group marks the successful conclusion of one of the most significant UK deployments in years.

"This deployment is a clear demonstration of how we are investing in our Armed Forces, standing with our partners, boosting economic growth and ensuring Britain plays a leading role in global security."

Healed said he was "hugely proud of everyone involved", adding that he was pleased they would be reunited with their families for Christmas "and a well-earned rest".

Carrier Strike Group Cdr Cdre James Blackmore said: "It has been a privilege to lead the nearly 4,000 soldiers, sailors, aviators and marines who have sailed over 40,000 nautical miles as part of the Strike Group - working with over 30 nations on route."