ROYAL Navy warship HMS Southampton is coming home to her namesake city for the first time in four years.

The Type-42 destroyer, pictured above, will spend this weekend renewing acquaintances with many of her affiliated organisations and charities.

Due to arrive in Southampton at midday tomorrow, the ship will be berthed at 46 Wharf near Town Quay during her three-day stay.

Southampton mayor Dennis Harryman and the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Mary Fagan will be on board as the ship arrives.

They will meet many of HMS Southampton's 266 company during the transit from Portsmouth Naval Base, including the 22 on board who come from the city.

One of the crew's first duties will be to present a £1,200 cheque to the neo-natal unit at Princess Anne Hospital.

The money was raised by 15 sailors who completed a marathon in Greece last November.

Groups of sailors will also be helping the Second Chance animal sanctuary in Mansbridge, the Shirley Warren Community Garden Project and the Tell Everyone About Multiple Sclerosis drop-in centre in Southampton on Saturday.

The ship's football and rugby teams will also be in action, taking on the University of Southampton sides.

Commander Rob Vitali, HMS Southampton's commanding officer, said: "This rare chance to visit our home city and the ship's birthplace is extremely exciting.

"It provides an opportunity for the ship's company to meet and, in some small way, contribute to the community they represent around the globe."

The ship will be open to visitors between 10am and 4pm on Sunday, before leaving Southampton on Monday for sea training off Plymouth.