The HMS Lancaster will berth in Dover today, before setting off for Chatham on Saturday.

The ship will dock at Cruise Terminal two at 10am.

The vessel’s second in command is Deal man, James Thomson, a former Dover Grammar School for Boys pupil.

Mr Thomson said: “Coming home in my own warship as second-in-command is an extremely proud moment for me and my family.

“I think they will all want to wave from the top of the cliffs.

“I am thoroughly looking forward to catching up with family and friends during this visit – it’s a real homecoming.”- James Thomson

He joined the navy in 1997 and has served all over the world since.

On Saturday the ship will move onto Chatham’s Historic Dockyard to celebrate the HMS Cavalier’s 70th anniversary launch.

Tim Waggott, chief executive at the port said: “I am delighted to welcome HMS Lancaster to the Port of Dover.

“As the port works hard to increase local skills and interest in the maritime industry, it is great to see how a former local school pupil - Lieutenant Commander James Thomson - has succeeded, taking Dover’s reputation for maritime excellence across the world – exactly what we are committed to doing. A great advert for us all.”