Rugby World Cup winning coach Sir Clive Woodward has been appointed visiting professor at St Mary's University.

The former England coach, who won the sport's most prestigious prize in 2003, joins the school of sport, health and applied science.

Sir Clive begins his role with the university next month and will support high profile research projects related to rugby as well as broadening the international appeal of its online courses.

He said: "St Mary’s is a very well-known name in the field of sport science and has supported many international athletes in their careers.

"I had no hesitancy in joining the fantastic team of academics here and I hope to give as much to the university as I will certainly gain from the experience."

The university, based in Waldegrave Road, will be used as a team base for South Africa and New Zealand during this autumn's Rugby World Cup.

Professor John Brewer, head of the school of sport, health and applied science, added: "It is a great honour to have Sir Clive working with us - his experience in coaching and in business is second to none.

"He will help us to reach a global audience, particularly in the area of international sport.

"We very much see this as a two-way appointment, enabling us to support Sir Clive with his work in elite sport while gaining from his expertise in areas such as sport management and leadership."

Sir Clive will continue his work on the International Olympic Committee Entourage Commission as well as media work for the Daily Mail, the BBC and Sky Sports while at St Mary's.

The university is celebrating its 165th anniversary this year, which will be marked by a series of high profile events at the campus.