SOUTHAMPTON cruise giants Cunard saw its 175th anniversary celebrations get off to a spectacular start.

Fireworks and marching bands saw off the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth from Southampton on world voyages to start a whole year of exciting events.

And famous guests were on board including British actress Celia Imrie on the Queen Mary 2 and journalist Kate Adie on the Queen Elizabeth.

Other celebrities lined up to appear on Cunard cruises this year include motor racing legend Sir Jackie Stewart, Anne Widdecombe and actress Kim Novak.

Angus Struthers, marketing director for Cunard, said: “2015 is going to be an amazing year for Cunard. We’ll be celebrating our 175th anniversary throughout the year with an exciting programme of commemorative sailings and special events.

“Celebrity speakers will add an extra touch of sparkle and insight to the celebrations on board while the sheer spectacle of bringing the fleet together in Southampton and Liverpool and marking key dates in Cunard’s history will make compelling viewing for both passengers and spectators ashore.”

Daily Echo: