Enjoying the tour were five young adults, who are all either having cancer treatment or follow-up treatment, and two staff members from the CLIC Sargent charity.

Lizzie Fennemore, who works for the charity, said: 'We had a great time visiting the Ark Royal. It was really interesting to be shown around the ship and see some of what life on board is like. The afternoon also provided a great break from treatment for the young people.'

The CLIC Sargent Charity is the UK's leading young persons' cancer charity.

The visit to the Fleet Flagship was organised by Lieutenant Nicola Hopkins, the Flag Lieutenant to the Commander UK Maritime Forces.

Sub Lieutenant Mark Paton and AB Warfare Specialist Liam Huffee hosted the tour, which included visits to the ship's operations room, the bridge, the hangar and the flight deck.

Sub Lt Paton said: 'It's always a great experience showing people around the ship, telling them what I do and introducing them to the departments and people on board.

'I'm always amazed just how interested people are.'