Dover was at the centre of world-wide media attention at the weekend when actress Sophia Loren christened a new cruise liner at the port.

People travelled from all over the world for the event, which included concerts onboard the MSC Poesia by Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli and pop star KT Tunstall.

Jazz singer Peter Grant with Ronnie Scott's Jazz Band and Radio One DJ Annie Mac provided more entertainment throughout the night, and American artist Brian Olsen painted a picture of Sophia Loren.

Prince and Princess Michael of Kent were the royal guests for the occasion, and presentations were made on behalf of Dover District Council and Dover Harbour Board.

It was the first time MSC had christened one of their ships outside Italy.

"We wanted to offer a unique launch ceremony, something never seen before", said Pierfrancesco Vago, chief executive officer of MSC Cruises.

The luxury liner, which can accommodate 2,550 passengers, sailed from Dover on Sunday night for its first cruise to Cork, Portugal, Spain, Italy and Croatia.

The ship will then sail on to Venice, where she will remain for the summer season.