A SHIP whose name is synonymous with the Falklands has returned to her Hamp-shire home for the last time.

The Royal Fleet Auxiliary Sir Galahad docked at Marchwood Military Port yesterday after completing her final amphibious exercise.

She is being taken out of service and will complete her last voyage on July 20 when she sails to Portsmouth Dockyard.

The original Sir Galahad was bombed during the Falklands conflict in 1982 and was later sunk as a war grave.

Servicemen on board when the vessel was attacked at Bluff Cove included Welsh Guardsman Simon Weston, who suffered horrific burns.

The current ship is commanded by Captain Rob Dorey, of Southampton.

He said: "She has seen service throughout the world and made a valued contribution to many operations, including the supply of humanitarian relief to people in desperate need.

"Many associations originating from the Falklands campaign still hold the name of Sir Galahad dear to their hearts.

"This was evident during a recent farewell visit to South Wales, where a number of veterans from the Galahad Association and the Welsh Guards were welcomed on board.

"The ship means a lot to the RFA and her departure is inevitably tinged with sadness."