Pope Leo is named Papal Confrater of Windsor's St George's Chapel with King's approval, a year after their Vatican meeting

It is the first exchange of such religious titles between the two churches in roughly 500 years, since Henry VIII broke with Rome. Pope Leo XIV, 71, has accepted the honour, announced by the Dean and Canons of Windsor. A specially commissioned chair for him will be unveiled at St George's Chapel. Buckingham Palace hailed 'a visible sign of spiritual fellowship, ecumenical friendship and Christian fraternity'.

King Charles, 77, was made Royal Confrater of St Paul's Outside the Walls last October.

The Pope will miss next week's Assisi trip while he recovers from lung surgery.

King Charles, himself having cancer treatment, sent the Pope a message after his diagnosis.