Duchess of Cambridge to take up Wimbledon role

The Duchess of Cambridge enjoys one of her frequent visits to Wimbledon. Credit: PA

The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, has been handed one of the most prestigious roles in British tennis.

A huge fan of the sport, the Duchess is to become patron of the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club - best known as the venue for Wimbledon - and will take over the position from the Queen.

Reports suggest that her incumbency will be made official during this summer's Wimbledon tournament. The Duchess is a regular presence in the Royal Box and would be far from the only member of the Royal Family to take an active role in sport - her husband, Prince William, is President of the Football Association.