SHE was built in 1914, just two years after the ill-fated Titanic sailed from Southampton, and now the world's oldest passenger ship still in active service has sailed into the city's docks.

The vessel has survived the decades to become a floating Christian bookshop and a centre for missionary work.

While all her other contemporaries have been sent to the breaker's yard, the 6,670-ton Doulos has continued to travel the world and has so far visited 490 ports in 94 different countries since starting her present role in June, 1978.

Doulos is crewed by 320 volunteers from 45 nations and is in Southampton until Wednesday, April 21.

Ship tours (via Dock Gate 10) cost £2.50 for adults and £1 for children under 12. Tour times are: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 8pm. Sunday, 2pm to 8pm.