A TOWN’S Pier welcomed an extra special guest mooring in its waters as it returned from a trip out at sea.

HMS Charger docked at Ha’penny Pier, in Harwich, on Thursday after returning from a naval exercise.

Pier Master Sue Daish joined Commodore Rob Bellfield and the crew onboard of the 49-ton boat which can reach speeds of up to 21 knots.

The first Charger model was launched more than 200 years ago in 1801 as a gun-brig. Its weapons consisted of one eight-inch mortar, ten carronade cannons and two guns.

Today’s ship was built by Watercroft Ltd in Shoreham-by-sea, West Sussex, and finished by Vosper Thornycroft.

It has been the University Royal Naval Unit for Liverpool University since 1990.

A spokesman for the Pier’s Authority, Harwich Haven Authority, said: “HMS Charger visited Harwich flying the white ensign with pride as it returned from a naval exercise.

“While moored on the Ha’penny Pier pontoons, Commodore Rob Bellfield took the opportunity to meet with both Harwich Haven Authority and Trinity House.”

“We look forward to welcoming them back soon.”