THE River Mersey is to play host to two world-famous ships this year.
HMS Ark Royal will return to Liverpool this month and Queen Mary 2 will travel to the city in October.
Following a successful debut trip last year, the Ark Royal will be at the Cruise Liner Terminal for four days from January 15-19.
She will be open to the public on Friday, January 16 from 10am to 3pm and on Saturday from 10am to 3pm.
The ship will host a reception attended by 250 guests, led by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Steve Rotheram. In addition two helicopters will take off from the ship at 10am on the Monday.
