A British Naval ship, HMS Newcastle, would visit Tema from April 4-8, according to a statement from the British High Commission on Wednesday.

It said as the Royal Navy ship designated for South Atlantic patrol, HMS Newcastle provided a tangible UK maritime presence in the South Atlantic whilst also providing a presence in West Africa in support of UN and UK interests.

This would be her first trip to Tema, since relieving HMS Montrose, who visited Takoradi in November 2001. The statement said the purpose of the visit was to reinforce ties between the UK and Ghana.

While in Tema the Captain, Commander Steve Pearson, would pay a visit to the Flag Officer in Command Eastern Naval Command, Commodore A.R.S. Nunoo. The ship's sports teams also hope to compete in a number of fixtures with local football and rugby teams.

HMS Newcastle was commissioned in 1978, and is a type 42 Destroyer.HMS Newcastle completes her role of Atlantic Patrol Task (South) in September 2002 and would be replaced by another Royal Navy unit.