Portsmouth should host its biggest-ever party to mark the arrival of the navy’s new aircraft carriers.
That’s the call from the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir George Zambellas, who says the eyes of the world will be on the city and it needs to rise to the challenge by marking the moment with a memorable day.
Portsmouth has just a year to muster its troops until the 65,000-tonne leviathan docks at the naval base’s newly-named Princess Royal Jetty.
In a speech to council bosses, the retiring sea lord called for schools, businesses, residents and visitors to rally.
‘So my challenge to Portsmouth, and for the Royal Navy, is to put on an even greater show.
‘Let’s make this a day to remember. Let’s make sure that in 50 years’ time, people in Portsmouth still talk about the day they were given off school to see this 65,000-tonne giant arrive.
‘Come on Portsmouth – let’s show the world how we welcome a queen!’
The carrier is receiving the finishing touches at the naval base in Rosyth, Scotland.
She is due to arrive in Portsmouth early next year.
Now the pressure is on for the city to begin its party preparations.
Council leader Donna Jones is confident Portsmouth can deliver.
She will write to all the city’s headteachers, calling on them to allow children to have a half-day so they can see Queen Elizabeth’s arrival as well as encouraging businesses to fly flags from their windows.
‘This is going to be one of the most historic occasions the city has played host to in decades,’ said Cllr Jones.
