Harry to be Rugby Football Union patron

Prince Harry is to take over from The Queen as patron of England's Rugby Football Union next year.

The Queen has held the role since 1952 after taking it on from her father, King George VI, following his death, while Prince Harry has been the vice patron since 2010.

"It has been a privilege and an honour to have The Queen as Patron of the RFU for over 60 years," RFU president Peter Baines said on Tuesday.

"She has been a fantastic supporter of the union and we thank her for that and her contribution to the game of rugby in England.

"We welcome Prince Harry as our new Patron. He has been Vice Patron for a number of years already and a regular at England Tests at Twickenham."