The Queen is inspecting one of the biggest ever gatherings of the world's navies to mark the 200th anniversary of the battle of Trafalgar. As Lord High Admiral, she is carrying out the international fleet review on board HMS Endurance in the Solent, off Portsmouth.
The fleet of 167 ships includes warships, tall ships, lifeboats and cruise liners from the Royal Navy and 35 other nations.
Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall are among the royals witnessing the review from other navy ships.
But the celebrations have been overshadowed by a row over political correctness.
The authorities have decided not to re-enact Trafalgar, opting instead for a Napoleonic sea battle pitting a red navy against a blue navy.
The decision has been described as "pretty stupid" by the great, great, great granddaughter of Admiral Nelson and Emma Hamilton.
Mrs Anna Tribe, 75, said: "I am sure the French and Spanish are adult enough to appreciate we did win that battle.
"I am anti political correctness. Very much against it. It makes fools of us."
The mock battle off Southsea, Hants, will involve a fleet of 17 ships from five nations.
A spokesman for Trafalgar 200 said up to 150,000 spectators and hundreds of VIP guests were expected to attend, depending on the weather.
View User's Journal
talk to me
 |
