RFA Sir Tristram on last journey

The RFA Sir Tristram saw service across four decades

A military supply ship that was bombed during the Falklands conflict has made her last journey after 35 years.

RFA Sir Tristram left her base at Marchwood Military Port, Southampton, and sailed into Portsmouth Harbour.

The vessel, which supplied navy warships with fuel, food and ammunition since 1970, is being replaced by more modern vessels.

The Sir Tristram will be used in future as a static training ship.

'Valuable addition'

The vessel was famously bomed alongside RFA Sir Galahad, kiliing two crew, at Fitzroy during the Falklands conflict in 1982.

A spokesperson for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary Service, which employs more than 2,000 civilian officers and ratings, said the ship rejoined service in 1985, with almost 10m (33ft) added to her length.

He said: "Over the last 35 years, RFA Sir Tristram has supported amphibious operations by landing troops, tanks, vehicles and other heavy equipment to ports or onto any suitable shore.

"She has operated large helicopters such as Chinook and Merlin from her flight deck.

"Such versatility has made her a valuable addition to operations by UK, Nato, and UN forces."

She will be replaced by the new "Bay class" of Landing Ship Dock Auxiliary (LSD(A)) fleet.