Prince Harry was clearly loving every moment of this particular royal visit. The rugby fan was on top form as he paid a visit to Paignton Rugby Club in Devon on Wednesday. The 31-year-old, who has been a regular fixture at the Rugby World Cup, learned first-hand about two Rugby Football Union (RFU) projects which encourage the sport at grass roots level.
Harry is patron of All Schools, the RFU's flagship legacy programme which aims to increase the number of state secondary schools that play the sport. The initiative offers support to schools over a three year period including coaching, student volunteer training and kit and equipment, as well as links to centres like Paignton Rugby Club which he toured.
© Photo: Getty ImagesPrince Harry was thrilled to tour the Devon rugby club this week
During his visit to the club Harry met with the players, volunteers and coaches before watching some of the younger team's training sessions and match practices on the pitch. The Prince also presented the club with the RFU legacy gold standard award in recognition of the contribution it is making to promoting rugby in the local area. In returnhe was given a pair of boots emblazoned with 'Prince Harry'.
Following his visit to the club, Harry went to Exeter's Sandy Park stadium to watch the World Cup clash between Namibia and Georgia at 8pm. On arrival at the stadium, he will meet a group of 16-24 year olds who have been through the Rugby Empowering Employment Programme, before watching the match.
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe royal inspects his new boots - which were emblazoned with 'Prince Harry'
The Prince, who is honorary president of England Rugby 2015, has been in the crowd at a number of matches throughout the tournament but was left disappointed after the host nation crashed out of the group stages following their defeat to Australia on Saturday.
Harry attended the opening ceremony in September with his brother Prince William and sister-in-law the Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton, and gave an impassioned speech saying he hoped the tournament would inspire more people to play the sport.
© Photo: Getty ImagesAfter the visit to Paignton, the royal went on to Exeter, where he met who have been through the Rugby Empowering Employment Programme
The Queen's grandson, who played rugby at school, said: "This evening marks the beginning of a celebration of rugby which I hope will inspire current players, those new to the game and future generations."
