Rugby legend appointed by King Charles to military role

Alun Wyn Jones has been appointed as Honorary Colonel of 3rd Battalion, The Royal Welsh, by King Charles III. The former Wales and British and Irish Lions captain talks of his pride in the new role - and his apprehension. Lucy John reports

- Lucy John

ALUN Wyn Jones is the most capped rugby player in history, with 170 caps for appearances between 2006 and 2023.

Jones became Wales' 129th captain when he led the side against Italy in the Six Nations tournament in 2009 and is one of only four players to have been selected on four British and Irish Lions tours, achieving 12 caps between 2009 and 2021.

Now the Welsh rugby legend has a new role. As Honorary Colonel of 3rd Battalion, The Royal Welsh, Jones will serve as an ambassador for Wales, inspiring current and future generations of The Royal Welsh with his wealth of experience and leadership credibility.

He takes over the position from Brigadier Russ Wardle, the former head of the army in Wales.

Jones, who will wear military uniform in this role, said he was “hugely flattered and humbled”, as well as “a little apprehensive”.