Friends and family of Royal Navy submarine crew gathered at Faslane to welcome them home as HMS Vengeance returned from patrol.

It was the first time loved ones were able to come together at HM Naval Base Clyde for a couple of years due to Covid restrictions.

With rules having been relaxed, more than 200 relatives travelled to Rhu from across the UK to catch a glimpse of the giant ballistic vessel gliding past.

They were then hosted in the Warrant Officers and Senior Rates Mess where entertainment and refreshments were provided while they waited for the 140-strong crew to arrive.

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HMS Vengeance is one of four Vanguard class submarines which helps to maintain the country's Continuous At Sea Deterrant.

Commodore Jim Perks CBE, Commodore of the Submarine Service, said: "It was a pleasure to welcome the families onto the Naval Base to welcome home HMS Vengeance after what has been a challenging period at sea, including being away from home over the festive period.

“We continue to ask a lot of our people and they consistently rise to those challenges. 

"Having the families back on base for the first time since the start of Covid restrictions definitely makes the homecoming more special.”

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The homecoming event was organised by Royal Navy Family and People Support, Submarine Support Crew and HMNB Clyde staff to give families the chance to connect with one another.

Volunteers were also on hand to answer questions and provide support - particularly to those who were experiencing the homecoming for the first time.