A US warship named after Winston Churchill arrived in Hampshire for a diplomatic visit to Britain today.

The USS Winston S Churchill, an Arleigh Burke class destroyer, sailed into Portsmouth Naval Base, for a five day visit.

During its stay, a stop-off on its way to a seven-month deployment in the Arabian Gulf, the ship will host Sir Winston's daughter Lady Mary Soames for lunch as well as hold an evening reception for local dignitaries.

Daily Echo: For a video of the top stories in today's Daily Echo, click the front page.

Crowds of people lined the shore and Portsmouth's historic Round Tower to welcome the ship as it arrived in the harbour.

Commanding officer, Commander Juan Orozco said: ''The ship is excited and proud to be visiting the UK, we've worked really hard over the last few months and we are all looking forward to a safe arrival at the home of the Royal Navy and an interesting visit to Portsmouth.

''Personally, I am honoured that Lady Soames can spend time with us and enjoy hospitality on board this ship, which stays true to the spirit of her esteemed father.

''I know the ship's company can't wait to get out and about over the weekend to some of the unique and historic places in England, this will be a real treat before our real work starts in earnest maintaining maritime security in the Gulf region.''

Among the crew of the 9,500-ton, 513-foot warship, is a Royal Navy officer.

Lieutenant Brian Drewett is currently serving as the ship's navigator and is the only US Navy ship to have a Royal Navy officer assigned permanently as ship's company in honour of the ship's namesake.