The ship's official voyage is a six-month trip to Malaysia, but it could be used "if required" in Iraq

The ship is carrying 1,100 troops to the Gulf. Eventually UK troops in the region will total 8,000

The troops were seen off by cheering relatives and members of the public from a sunny Portsmouth

It is an emotional farewell for the relatives, who do not know what the future will bring

The crew have spent several days loading the ship for the voyage

Military land vehicles are being transported by the ship, which will is also serving as a helicopter carrier

The average age of the crew is 24 with some, like Frances Guy, only 19

The ship's departure drew many spectators to the shore to wave off the troops

Morale-boosting treats on board include 144,000 bars of chocolate and a million cigarettes

The ship will first head to Scotland for more supplies, then off to the Mediterranean