Ensign on flagship lowered for the last time as Ark Royal is decommissioned

THE crew of HMS Ark Royal yesterday watched as the Royal Navy ensign was lowered for the final time on the fleet's flagship.

The warship was taken out of service as part of the UK government's defence review last year.

The ceremony on the ship's flight deck marked the decommissioning of the aircraft carrier at Portsmouth Naval Base.

The songs For Those in Peril on the Sea and Auld Lang Syne rose from the decks as people remembered her great history.

The navy will not have the capability to fly fixed-wing aircraft from sea for about ten years until the first of the next generation of aircraft carriers come into service.

Captain Jerry Kyd, the last commanding officer of HMS Ark Royal, said: "It's hugely emotional, but I'm also very, very proud to be here today representing my ship's company.

"This ship has been at service now for 25 years, both at peace and at war, and she's probably the most iconic and famous name the Royal Navy has."

"Everyone knows the Ark Royal so today is very poignant and there's a tinge of sadness of course, but also a real sense of pride about what this ship has achieved over 25 years.

"The public can be tremendously proud of this ship and what she's done for the country."