HMS St Albans made a swift return to Malta to take part in celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary of the Mediterranean island’s independence.

The Type 23 frigate had visited Malta in May while returning from deployment east of Suez.

But this time she had a central role, hosting a reception on Malta’s National Day which was attended by 140 guests, including the Princess Royal, the President and Prime Minister of Malta, ambassadors and the commanding officers of three visiting warships.

The event ended with beat from the Royal Marines Band.

The ship was open to visitors for two days, and six of her officers visited the Russian cruiser Moskva, later hosting a group of Moskva officers on board their frigate.

Cdr Mark Knibbs, Commanding Officer of St Albans, said: “We were honoured to be part of the celebrations and for our ship to be afforded such a prominent position in the Grand harbour at such an auspicious time.”