AHEAD OF THE WOMEN'S WORLD CUP PRINCE WILLIAM KICKS OFF THE LIONESSES' BID FOR VICTORY WITH A SURPRISE VISIT

As president of the Football Association, the Prince of Wales is England’s biggest fan – and he proved it with a surprise visit to the Lionesses’ training camp to wish them good luck in this summer’s Fifa Women’s World Cup

- EMILY NASH

And there was an added surprise for manager Sarina Wiegman when Prince William presented her with an honorary CBE in front of the squad, saying: “We don’t normally travel up and down the country to deliver these, but there’s one person who deserves it more than anyone else.”

Shocked, the Lionesses’ Netherlands-born coach said: “I don’t like surprises!” as the Prince produced the medal with a smile. “Sarina, this is your honorary CBE,” he replied.

Sarina told the Prince: “I really did not expect this. It’s very pretty. I’m so honoured. Thank you very much, but it’s all about the team.

“I am so honoured, I feel a bit emotional,” she added. “Let’s go and make some more history.”

The Prince was delighted his plan had come off. “I was glad we kept it a surprise,” he said.