The Duke of Cambridge is the new patron for the Metropolitan and City Police Orphans fund.

Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

The 34-year-old royal has been announced as the new benefactor of the charity, which was originally set up in 1870 and is the longest standing police charity, according to The Times newspaper.

Prince William's role with the organisation will see him support the children of those who work for the Metropolitan Police and the City of London Police who have tragically passed away, and can no longer support their brood.

And William's appointment comes 80 years after the orphanage was closed in 1937 and it was developed into the charity it is now.

The Chief executive officer at the Metropolitan Police, Peter Smyth, has admitted he is "delighted" to have the backing of William - who has three-year-old son Prince George and 20-month-old daughter Princess Charlotte with his wife the Duchess of Cambridge - and the royal has accepted the role as their new patron.

He said: "We are absolutely delighted that His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge has agreed to be our new patron."

And Peter believes young children and officers will be "extremely pleased" at the news.

He continued: "I am sure the children we support and serving police officers will also be extremely pleased."

Meanwhile, William's wife Catherine has also been granted a patron and has received a lifetime honorary membership for the Royal Photographic Society, which promotes and supports those interested in the art form.