THE crew of HMS St Albans will march through the city centre in a Freedom Parade on Sunday.

HMS St Albans is the 16th and last of the Royal Navy’s type 23 frigates, launched in May 2000.

While associated with the city, the warship is principally affiliated to the current Duke of St Albans who lives in London.

The ship recently visited Anglesey for the 70th anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic.

Sunday is the first time that crew from the 3,500-tonne warship have exercised their right to march through the city.

The parade starts outside the Civic Offices at 11am and continues along Bricket Road and Victoria Street before turning into St Peter’s Street where it will halt for a small service and inspection.

The parade will be led by HMS St Albans’ commanding officer Commander Andrew Block as it marches with drums beating and colours flying.

Mayor of St Albans Cllr Eileen Harris said: “The Freedom Parade is an opportunity for us all to show our support for the armed forces who are committed to serving this country. I hope as many people as possible will join me for this special occasion.”