DRUG-busting warship HMS Grafton docked into Ipswich waters today.After a two-year absence, the warship, famous for its starring role in the television show Making Waves, will pay a five-day visit to its affiliated town - Ipswich.

DRUG-busting warship HMS Grafton docked into Ipswich waters today.

After a two-year absence, the warship, famous for its starring role in the television show Making Waves, will pay a five-day visit to its affiliated town - Ipswich.

The frigate's crew, together with the men and women of Four Regiment Army Corp, will be awarded the Freedom of the Town.

Meanwhile five hospitality students, from the town's Suffolk College and Ipswich and West Suffolk College in Bury St Edmunds, are getting a taste of Navy life – by joining the chefs in the galley.

The Commanding Officer of HMS Grafton, Commander Richard Thomas MBE, said: "We have been trying to get Grafton into Ipswich throughout my time in Command and I am delighted, therefore, that we are finally in a position to do so.

"We have all been looking forward to this visit immensely and I hope that as many local people can come and see their warship and meet the sailors who make up their ship's company.

"We are extremely proud of our affiliation with Ipswich and will look to do all we can this week to foster and build on the strong relationships we already enjoy."

HMS Grafton hit the headlines last year when it was involved in a multi-million dollar operation intercepting drug-runners in Caribbean waters.

In a single bust, the frigate managed to seize $100 million worth of cocaine.

Following high-speed chases, HMS Grafton also confiscated over $10 million worth of marijuana.

The warship is now claiming fame once more as the platform for a new Carlton TV drama, Making Waves, which stars Alex Ferns (previously in Eastenders) and Emily Hamilton (previously in A&E).

The frigate, cast as HMS Suffolk, has – together with her crew - received a full makeover in honour of the show.

People will be able to pay a visit to the famous frigate this weekend. The warship will be open to the public from 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.