Hotel manager's pride at hosting dive teamÂ

THE manager of the oldest hotels in Portsmouth has spoken of his pride at establishing a reputation for hosting some of the most respected naval archaeologists in the UK.

A team of maritime archaeologists and ex-service personnel divers stayed at the Royal Maritime Club in Queen Street while working on the excavation of HMS Invincible. 

The dive team is assembled thanks to a £2m LIBOR grant to conduct an emergency rescue excavation of the Royal Navy's site. The Maritime Archaeology Sea Trust is leading a partnership with Bournemouth University and the National Museum of the Royal Navy where the artefacts will be exhibited once conserved. 

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Jessica Berry, chief executive of the Maritime Archaeology Sea Trust, said: '˜The hotel is hugely atmospheric and inspirational. We will definitely be returning.' 

General manager John Alderson said: '˜We are very proud that such an important project was based at the hotel. I'm delighted that the team had such a positive experience.' 

The Royal Maritime Club, which has 100 bedrooms, was established in 1850.Â