A BIRCHWOOD man who describes his former ship's history as 'blacker than the Bounty' will be at the helm of special celebrations taking place this summer in Devon.

Steve Brotherton, aged 50, of McCarthy Close, is one of an estimated 180-strong party who will revisit the dockyard near Plymouth where the crew of HMS Hermione first met, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the ship's loss.

The seafarers are planning a tour of the dockyard during a June weekend which will encompass a river cruise, a church service and a wreath-laying ceremony in remembrance of those who served on the illustrious vessel.

The HMS Hermione Association scooped a welcome cash boost from the National Lottery community fund before Christmas, which was instrumental in financing this sentimental journey.

The money has been used to buy, among other things, a hand-made naval standard, costing £700, which will be flown aloft on their arrival at the yard.

Mr Brotherton said: "It will be a very emotional event and it will be fantastic to reunite old friends who have previously lost touch."

There have been four Hermione ships in all, and Mr Brotherton worked on one in 1969.

He said: "Some of the ships have a very chequered past.

"The story of the first ship is embroiled in tales of murder as all the officers were thrown overboard in the 18th century, sparking a major international incident."