A new Royal Navy vessel named after Medway is to visit the Towns early next year.

The 2,000-tonne warship was christened HMS Medway last year in Scotland with a bottle of locally-produced Dockyard Gin

It will sail along the River Medway in spring 2019.

Medway Council leader Cllr Alan Jarrett (Con) said he was “genuinely thrilled” by the news.

He said: “I am delighted that HMS Medway is coming home. Medway has a strong connection with the Royal Navy and I am looking forward to welcoming the vessel for a visit in spring 2019.

“HMS Medway has been added to the Royal Navy fleet to help protect UK waters.

“I am honoured that the people of Medway will have the opportunity of seeing the patrol vessel being sailed along the River Medway.”

HMS Medway is one of three vessels commissioned by government in 2014, with the project costing a total of £348 million including spares and support.

It will be used in “counter-terrorism, counter-piracy and anti-smuggling operations,” and is designed to be deployed globally.

At a ceremony to mark the first steel being cut in 2015, Cllr Barry Kemp (Con) said: “The people of Medway – like me – are proud that the area’s name will continue to be linked with the United Kingdom’s naval history.

“Medway has a long and rich naval history, and we are delighted that this new vessel will recognise our important maritime links.”