HARWICH has been described as the ‘most hospitable’ town in the world as the last cruise ship of 2013 docked in the town.

The ship travelling from Rotterdam was greeted by the Harwich Tourism team.

The Dovercourt Theatre group were decked out in festive fancy dress and the Harwich Society wasted no time in showing the visitors around Harwich’s best historical attractions.

Visitors also got to meet the mayor and other councillors at the Guildhall.

The compliment came from American visitors Ron and Jan Philips who described Harwich as ‘the most hospitable little town in the world.’

Mayor of Harwich, Dave Mcleod, said: “Everyone is working together to make sure that Harwich benefits from the cruise ships and Ron and Jan Philips’ words suggest we are getting it right. It was a lovely moment.”