RENOWNED actor David Warner, who starred in the popular television series Hornblower, gained an insight into naval history when he visited HMS Ganges museum.

RENOWNED actor David Warner, who starred in the popular television series Hornblower, gained an insight into naval history when he visited HMS Ganges museum.

Mr Warner, who played the villainous Captain Sawyer in the £12 million drama, took a trip to the Shotley museum yesterday while staying with a friend in the county.

Since appearing in the Hornblower television series, which follows the exploits of novelist CS Forester's popular naval hero Horatio Hornblower, the actor has grown increasingly interested in British naval history.

HMS Ganges was once a famous Royal Navy training school and saw thousands of young recruits pass through its doors between 1905 and 1976.

Parts of the school still stand – including the famous mast – and, thanks to owners of Shotley Marina, the HMS Ganges Association was able to open a special museum exhibiting artefacts, memorabilia and photographs.

Mr Warner's friend Francis Kyle, who suggested he visit the museum when he arrived for a break at his Shotley home, said the actor loved Suffolk.

"I thought with his interest in the part he has played recently, it would be something that he would enjoy. He was looking forward to it," he added.