A NAVY veteran returned to the ship which he served on more than 60 years ago.

George 'Sharky' Ward, 90, served as a naval gunner on HMS Belfast during the 1950s.

During his 14-year stint with the Royal Navy, he was posted around the globe in places like the Mediterranean and Africa.

HMS Belfast played a big part in his time posted in Egypt.

Mr Ward, of Caversham, recently broke his hip, and was bed-ridden in hospital for four months.

After making a full recovery, he contacted charity Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) to ask if he could return to his beloved warship.

He said: “This was really special for me. Firstly because it brought back a lot of memories for me from when I was younger. Secondly because I have been so isolated since I broke my hip, it is a real milestone to be able to complete the trip.

I am lucky to have shared this trip down memory lane with my SSAFA caseworker, Karen Scott, who has helped me to get to this point. I would encourage any other veterans in need to come and speak to SSAFA, they’ve given me a great deal of personal support."