PRINCE Charles was visiting the North West today to hand over his HMS Bronington ship to the Warships Preservation Trust.

The Prince of Wales, who was commander of the mine hunting ship in 1976, was due in Birkenhead for the official handover today.

The ship was berthed on the Manchester Ship Canal for the last 12 years but has had to move due to lack of funding.

The Bronington Trust, which looks after her, believes the move will safeguard the ship's future.