Queen commends Olympic heroes of Team GB and the Commonwealth

The Queen has offered her "warmest congratulations" to Team GB on their "outstanding performance" in Rio.

The monarch, who is on her annual summer break in Balmoral, sent a message of praise to Britain's Olympic stars.

Team GB's success was a reflection of the "talent and hard work" of the athletes and their support teams, the sovereign said.

The message from the Queen, who is also head of the Commonwealth, read: "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.

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

Team GB's medal winning athletes from Rio can expect an invitation to Buckingham Palace in the autumn.

The Queen hosted a glittering reception for the heroes of London 2012 and is likely to do the same for the stars of the 2016 Games.

Team GB sportsmen and women are also in line for honours after Downing Street confirmed there would be no formal cap on the number of athletes and coaches who can be recognised.

The Queen's message follows that of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, who declared the athletes had "made the entire country proud".

William, Kate and Harry, in a joint message, praised Team GB for their "record-breaking success".

They added: "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."

Great Britain won 67 medals at Rio 2016, including 27 golds, eclipsing London 2012 and Beijing 2008 in the process.

The Duke, Duchess and Harry revealed they were among those who were glued to the television, watching Team GB's fortunes.

"We have really enjoyed following your achievements across such a wide variety of sports during the last two weeks," they said.

"London 2012 was a hard act to follow, but you have made the entire country proud of everything you have accomplished."

Kate was among those who joined the Queen at the Palace's post-London Games reception in October 2012.

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."

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