Chelsea pensioners were guests of honour on a trip to City Hall at the official celebration of the new Battersea Power Station Pier.

Ribbon-cutting to commemorate the event was followed by a journey aboard an MBNA Thames Clippers vessel, travelling from London Bridge to the nearest pier at City Hall.

The 26 pensioners on board were joined by Val Shawcross CBE, deputy mayor of London for transport, and council leader Ravi Govindia.

Mr Govindia said: “We are delighted that Wandsworth is now London’s best connected river borough giving people more transport choice than ever before.

“The opening of the pier is also yet another milestone in the regeneration of Nine Elms which is the great source of new jobs and homes in the country.”

The new river bus service, operated by MBNA Thames Clippers, can travel from Battersea Power Station to Embankment within 15 minutes, Blackfriars in 19 minutes and Canary Wharf in 40 minutes.

Boats will also run every 20 minutes during peak commuting hours and every half hour off-peak and weekends.

Simon Murphy, chief financial officer and deputy chief executive of Battersea Power Station Development Company, said: “The launch of the river bus service is a major milestone for Battersea Power Station, connecting our residents directly to the West End and beyond, and bringing visitors to our new shops and restaurants.

“I’m especially glad, with Remembrance Sunday just past, that we’re able to host the Chelsea pensioners yesterday.

“On behalf of our shareholders, we hope that the Chelsea Pensioners and other local residents enjoy travelling on the river, starting off with a great view of the Power Station, one of the city’s famous landmarks.”

The event was held on Friday, November 17.