Prince Charles has agreed to become patron of the Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust.

His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales has been involved with the Medway dockyard since April 2006, when he became patron of the Dockyard's No 1 Smithery - then called the National Museums at Chatham project.

Then in July 2011 Charles agreed to become patron of its Command of the Oceans project, centred around the significant find of the ship’s timbers of the NAMUR.

Now he agreed to become patron of the entire site, for an initial five year term.

Trust chief executive Bill Ferris said: "The fact that he has agreed to be patron of the entire Historic Dockyard Chatham site is huge recognition of the work that we are doing in bringing this sensitive heritage site in the heart of Medway back to life in creative and sustainable ways, generating substantial return on investment as well as creating a world class heritage destination."

Trust chairman Admiral Sir Ian Garnett, added: "This underscores our reputation as a nationally important heritage destination with a strong future. More importantly, I am delighted for every single member of staff whose loyalty and commitment to making this place a visitor attraction second to none has been recognised. Without such dedication by its people, both full-time and volunteer, no organisation can aspire to Royal patronage."