IT doesn t really seem possible that the QE2 was launched 40 years ago – and is now making her last appearances on the ocean. Here Carol Thatcher looks at the history of Cunard s pride and joy: from the early days of the battles over its revolutionary des

IT doesn't really seem possible that the QE2 was launched 40 years ago - and is now making her last appearances on the ocean.

Here Carol Thatcher looks at the history of Cunard's pride and joy: from the early days of the battles over its revolutionary design through to the more sedate years when it was seen in all its glory as a luxury liner.

That, however, is not to say that it's past 40 years on the high seas has not had its moments of drama.

There were episodes of engine troubles and collisions - and the time when the Ministry of Defence called her into active service as a troop ship during the Falklands War.

But in spite of the problems the QE2 always had charm which makes a book about her history quite engrossing.