Team GB's Olympic display earns royal seal of approval

Team GB has won the royal seal of approval following their outstanding display at the Rio Olympics. The Queen has sent a personal message of congratulations in which she said the collective performance by the British athletes was "outstanding".

"I offer my warmest congratulations to the athletes of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the Commonwealth for their success at this year's Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The outstanding performance of Team GB reflects the talent and hard work of the athletes and their support teams," the Queen said.

"I send my best wishes to all those who contributed to this remarkable achievement," she added.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry also sent a letter to the British sports stars hailing their achievements as they described the team as an "inspiration to us all, young and old".

"You should arrive home knowing that you have delighted millions of people across the Home Nations, many of whom have stayed up late, night after night, to share in your celebrations," they said in a statement.

"We have really enjoyed following your achievements across such a wide variety of sports during the last two weeks . London 2012 was a hard act to follow, but you have made the entire country proud of everything you have accomplished."

William, Kate and Harry added: "We all know that this success does not come easy and is the culmination of years of hard work, passionate commitment, sheer grit and determination. You are an inspiration to us all, young and old.

"To everyone associated with Team GB - well done! We hope you have all enjoyed the experience as much as we have back home."

The young royals had previously sent a video message in support of the British team and they called on the nation to cheer them on as they set off for Rio.

The British contingent collected a total of 67 medals, coming second on the medals table. The US topped the table with an impressive 121 medals.

Following their success in Rio, the British athletes can also look forward to a personal invitation to Buckingham Palace, as a large number of the sports stars are expected to be included in the honours list. The Queen hosted a glittering reception for the participants in the London games and is expected to do the same for the 2016 stars, Mail Online reported.

In view of the many British successes in Rio, Downing Street confirmed there would be no formal cap on the number of honours available for the team's Olympic athletes and coaches. According to Sky News, Number 10 said Theresa May wants to see their success recognised following an "amazing fortnight" in Brazil.

The prime minister's official spokeswoman said: "We have had an amazing fortnight at the Rio Olympics and we should be looking at the differing ways that we can recognise and reward the athletes for all they have achieved, and honours are there to recognise and reward people."

Mo Farah, who was awarded a CBE after his success at London 2012, has said he would be thrilled to receive a knighthood after his "double double" triumph in Rio.