Seven ships celebrate P&O 175

Full details have this morning been announced of the major event in Southampton next week to celebrate the 175th anniversary of P&O, the oldest shipping company in Britain.

For the first time ever all P&O Cruises' seven ships - will be in Southampton with a record 40,000 passengers and crew coming through the docks.

With just four terminals passengers from two ships will check-in at the Ageas Bowl where special marquees, security and parking will be put in place for almost 4,000 holidaymakers.

The day will start with the arrival of all seven ships. In the evening there will be a public display from the Red Arrows over the Solent.

Meanwhile HMS Dragon will lead the ships out of the docks for a review by the Princess Royal.

A seven gun salute will be fired from the Isle of Wight.

In the docks bands will play as thousands of passengers throw streamers over the side of ships to mark the historic day.

Our Correspondent Mike Pearse interviewed Carol Marlow, the P&O Cruises Managing Director to find out more about the day of celebration.