Prince Harry set to leave army this year

He is understood to have decided to end his active military career after serving with distinction in Afghanistan. The move comes as a surprise as the prince is a passionate member of the armed forces who appeared to be focused on a long career serving as a British Army officer. Kensington Palace would not comment on the news, first reported in London’s Evening Standard, issuing a short statement highlighting his current role. It said: “Prince Harry is currently focused on his work supporting the Ministry of Defence’s recovery capability programme to ensure those who are wounded, injured or sick have appropriate recovery plans and the necessary support they require. It’s a natural progression from the work he did organising the Invictus Games. “This involves working alongside case officers in London District’s personal recovery unit and visiting various recovery centres and partner agencies (like forces charities and the NHS) around the country.” A source close to the royal household said: “This work is helping Prince Harry develop his knowledge of how the system works. “The military will always play a very important part in Prince Harry’s life and especially supporting those who have served or are serving in the armed forces. It is a topic he is passionate about, both personally and professionally, and he will always want to use his position to help, regardless of his military role.” The Standard said the 30-year-old prince plans to focus on his charity work and aims to spend “a significant period abroad” on field projects in Africa. He is keen to pursue his interests in conservation and wildlife and to continue helping the rehabilitation of injured service personnel. Before his active military duties end, he is expected to move to Australia for “several weeks”, seconded to serve with units there, the newspaper said. Later he will spend time in New Zealand but not be involved with the military there, it added. SEE ALSO • Prince Harry praises courage of Scots soldier FOLLOW US Twitter | Facebook | Google+ Subscribe to our DAILY NEWSLETTER (requires registration) SCOTSMAN TABLET AND MOBILE APPS iPhone | iPad | Android | Kindle