HMS Ark Royal to be scrapped in Turkey

HMS Ark Royal on the River Tyne Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

The Royal Navy's former flagship, the Ark Royal, which was built on Tyneside, is to be scrapped by a firm in Turkey, the Ministry of Defence has announced.

The aircraft carrier was built and launched at Swan Hunter's ship yard at Wallsend in 1981. The Government decommissioned her five years early to save money.

HMS Ark Royal with Harrier 'Jump Jets' on board in North Sea Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

Two years ago HMS Ark Royal returned to Tyneside. It was a chance for the ship-workers who built her to go on board one last time and meet the crew.

The decision to scrap her abroad has angered the businessman Freddy Shepherd, who had bid to carry out the work on the River Tyne.

HMS Ark Royal with Harrier Jets landing Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

The Harrier 'Jump Jet', which used to operate from aircraft carriers, were also taken out of service on Royal Navy ships when HMS Ark Royal was retired.

HMS Ark Royal made an emotional return to the place where she was built on Tyneside in November 2010.

It was her final voyage before being taken out of service.

ITV Tyne Tees joined her on her journey home.

Watch Richard Wilson's report above