BROADCASTING legend and world-renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough will visit Cammell Laird in Birkenhead later today to see construction of the UK's new polar research ship named after him.

He will also initiate lifting the first 'block' as work on the RRS Sir David Attenborough reaches its first milestone, during a 'laying of the keel' ceremony at the shipyard.

It is a maritime tradition said to bring luck to the ship during her construction and to the captain and crew during its life.

Commissioned by the Natural Environment Research Council, built by Cammell Laird engineers and operated by British Antarctic Survey, the £200m research ship will be one of the most advanced in the world and is due to set sail in 2019.

Scientific research conducted onboard will ensure that Britain remains at the forefront of polar science.

It is the largest commercial shipbuilding project at a UK shipyard for 30 years.

The decision to name it RRS Sir David Attenborough was made in May by then Science Minister Jo Johnson, following a public vote staged by NERC beating its nearest rival, Boaty McBoatface.

Sir David was selected because of his work presenting wildlife documentaries on the BBC including The Blue Planet, Planet Earth and Frozen Planet, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills said.

At the time, Mr Johnson said a public call for suggestions for the name of the vessel had "captured the imaginations".

He added that the name Boaty would adorn a remote-control sub-sea vehicle that will collect data and samples remotely from the deepest waters of the Arctic and Antarctic.

Sir David, who turned 90 in May, said: "I am truly honoured by this naming decision and hope that everyone who suggested a name will feel just as inspired to follow the ship's progress as it explores our polar regions.

"I have been privileged to explore the world's deepest oceans alongside amazing teams of researchers, and with this new polar research ship they will be able to go further and discover more than ever before."

Mr Johnson said: "This vessel will carry the Attenborough name for decades to come, as it fulfils its mission to explore the oceans and put Britain at the forefront of efforts to preserve our precious marine environment.

"The ship has captured the imaginations of millions, which is why we're ensuring that the Boaty name lives on through the sub-sea vehicle that will support the research crew, and the polar science education programme that will bring their work to life."

Ahead of today’s keel-laying, Birkenhead MP Frank Field said: "This is the largest commercial shipbuilding contract in my 37 years as Birkenhead's MP.

"A key player in securing this spectacular order was Sajid Javid, who was before the reshuffle the Business Secretary.

"He played an important role in making today happen."