Princess Anne will open the new Junior Ratings galley and dining hall, known as the Howe Building, at the training base on Wednesday.

Construction of the 2,500 square-metre facility has taken just over a year.

The central kitchen has been fitted with state-of-the-art catering equipment and several innovative systems, including a specialised waste- handling system.

Commander Bob White, of the Royal Navy Estate Organisation, said: 'Completion of Howe Building will add another facet to the programme of work to ensure naval personnel in HMS Collingwood are provided with the very best warfare and training facilities.

'The new building will complement the recently completed programme to upgrade living accommodation and introduce Type 45 Destroyer training assets.

'This will ensure our people are sufficiently prepared to serve ashore and at sea.

'Twenty-first century facilities underpin a modern and highly competent Royal Navy.'

After opening the building, the Princess, right, will present medals to serving personnel and meet naval staff and their families.