The British Ministry of Defence has put the aircraft carrier Ark Royal up for sale on an official used-equipment website.

Launched by the Queen in 1981, HMS Ark Royal was taken out of service as part of government budget cuts and is now open to offers.

Proposals for it include turning it into a commercial heliport, a base for security personnel during the London Olympics, or a school and nightclub.

Interested bidders are being invited to view the 22,000 tonne vessel at her home port, Portsmouth Naval Base, on May 3 and 4.

Before they can attend, they must submit an outline of their “intentions regarding the vessel” to the MoD.

Bidders have until 10am on June 13 to put their tenders forward for the ship. No minimum price is given.