There's further proof today of the importance of the Countess of Wessex to the royal scene with the announcement that Sophie is to take on a new, high profile role as an Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

It is a role which is close to her heart, the Countess having suffered numerous complications with her own pregnancies, not least a miscarriage and latterly the traumatic birth of her only child, Lady Louise Windsor, in November 2003.

Speaking about the appointment, Professor Allan Templeton, President of the Royal College, says: "We are deeply honoured that The Countess has shown an interest and commitment to our work. Her involvement furthers the long and successful association we have had with the Royal Family."

Sophie is following in a royal tradition, several members of the Royal Family having been made Honorary Fellows of the college, which represents over 12,000 consultant obstetricians and gynaecologists worldwide, all of whom work to promote women's health.

As well as such distinguished public figures as members of the Royal Family, Honorary Fellowships are primarily awarded to obstetricians and gynaecologists of renown, as well as distinguished members of the medical profession.

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother was the former Patron of the Royal College and, in 1960, opened the College's new building.

Confirmation of the Countess's new role will come later today when Sophie — who already works to support numerous healthcare charities, including those which research the causes of low birth weights and infant mortality — visits the Royal College's headquarters at Sussex Place in Regents Park, London.

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Name: Elsie	Comment: Sophie actually got this fellowship last year ratherly the same time. Oddly enough this season Sophie has announced three new patronages - Two Moors Festival, Surrey Development Community and England Hockey. She will also be undertaken a trip to Canada in November to look in on her Canadian charities.

Name: M-M	Comment: Sophie has turned out to be a compassionate and reliable Royal , taking on many patronages such as Girl Guides , mother and baby issues , as well as opthalmic and emergency medical services . She is quietly elegant and has been very supportive to the Queen and Duke .

Name: lisa p.	Comment: Once again, I'll bet Sophie will do a wonderful job with a minimum of fuss and fanfare. She is really one of the most underrated members of the Royal Family imo.

Name: Trudie	Comment: Sophie is such a caring person this new announcement is no surprise. Her hard work relating to healthcare issues partuculary women and children will make her an asset.