For those crew members of HMS Ocean who hail from the region, it is a particularly emotional return.

It is a matter of great pride that the amphibious helicopter carrier played a crucial role in the Gulf War - highlighted by the impressive statistics available.

But when the ship returned to its adopted port of Sunderland for the first time since it completed its Middle East mission, thoughts turned to family and home.

The carrier handled nearly 9,000 aircraft movements from its decks in 133 days of Operation Telic - more than double that in and out of Teesside International Airport at the same time.

As the Royal Navy's closest ship to the Iraq shoreline, she played a key role in the movement and support of the Royal Marines with more than 5,000 troop movements in the assault on the Al Faw peninsular.

Her reconnaissance, attack and transport helicopters also played a vital role throughout the Gulf operation.

Chief petty officer John Gibson, who hails from Jarrow, said: "The atmosphere was a mixture of anxiety and excitement. "Everyone was well trained and well prepared and simulated a number of scenarios a number of times. Everything ran smoothly. It's just nice being home with the family again."

Yesterday, HMS Ocean took the opportunity to attract new hands on deck.

The Royal Navy North-East Recruitment Team hosted local students to offer them a chance to sample a couple of careers on board.

Catering students from Sunderland City College took the challenge of preparing and serving a three-course meal for the ship's officers and 265-strong crew.

Meanwhile, students from the Public Uniformed Services Courts at the college battled it out in a mock air and sea defence operation and tackled other duties such as fire fighting and seamanship.

This is HMS Ocean's third visit to Sunderland. Back in September 2000, thousands of people took the opportunity to go onboard during the ship's three-day visit.

Since that time the 21,000 tonne vessel -- the largest in the Royal Navy -- has visited Malta, Barcelona, Bahrain, Dubai, Muscat, and Gibraltar.

Sunderland's Mayor, Councillor Juliana Heron said: "Sunderland's affiliation with the biggest ship in the Royal Navy's fleet is a source of immense pride to local people and likewise HMS Ocean does a tremendous job as a floating ambassador for our City.

HMS Ocean will be open to the public from 11.00am-4.00pm today.

She will be moored at Corporation Quay, opposite the National Glass Centre.

Access to the ship will be via the West Gate, next to the Fish Quay, on Low Road, just off High Street East.