Cunard ships salute Diamond Queen

Cruise company Cunard has sailed its three ships into port together for the first time today to mark the Diamond Jubilee.

Queen Victoria, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth sailed in single file into Southampton, Hampshire, soon after dawn, with a fire tug and a flotilla of small boats welcoming them in.

As Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria took a bow-to-bow position close to City Terminal, Queen Mary 2 passed each ship in turn, creating a three-bow formation, as flag-waving crew lined the foredecks, and the ships' whistles sounded in salute.

The nautical show kicked off a day of celebrations in the city to celebrate the Queen's 60 years on the throne with live bands and entertainment.

The Red Arrows are due to give their first ever display over the city this evening and there will also be a fireworks spectacular before the ships leave port from 11pm.

Organisers are claiming the day will be the biggest celebration outside London over the extended bank holiday weekend.

Speaking about the ships, a Cunard spokeswoman said: "Today was all about the opportunity for the three Cunard Queens to celebrate Her Majesty and her Diamond Jubilee.

"Cunard is proud of its association with Her Majesty and we are delighted to be able to honour her on this special day. It brought a lump to the throat when you saw these three magnificent ships together.

"There were crew out waving flags and lots of noise and there was a real positive spirit. It was a really special moment."