THE sight of a long lean warship anchored off Llandudno is rare sight these days.

The Type 23 frigate HMS Somerset formed part of the Royal Navy’s contribution to Armed Forces Day, having the honour of starting the parade by firing a saluting gun.

The Pioneer was invited on board to view preparations for Saturday’s major event and to sample what life is like in the 21st century Navy.

Photographer Kerry Roberts and I (reporter Allan George) donned dry suits and were taken aboard the ship in two high speed sea boats.

Once on board the party was given a tour of the ship, viewing its weapon systems, the bridge, and ship’s control room.

We chatted to her sailors, before being treated to lunch in the officer’s mess.

HMS Somerset’s Captain Tim Berry said: “We are acting as a backdrop for the Armed Forces weekend where we are recognised for the hard work and the time we spend away from home and the uncertainty of our lives.

“It is nice the population has the opportunity to say thank you.”

HMS Somerset is a Type 23 class frigate which are the backbone of the surface fleet.