THE Duchess of Cornwall has been named patron of a national charity that offers help to elderly people.

To coincide with her 70th birthday, she will take on the role at the Silver Line Helpline, a charity launched by Dame Esther Rantzen in November 2013.

The Helpline offers information, friendship and advice to older people around the clock and all over the UK.

Dame Esther said: "We are absolutely thrilled to have Her Royal Highness’s support for our work and we would like to wish her a very happy 70th Birthday.

"The Duchess has an understanding and empathy for older people who are so often forgotten and undervalued in today’s busy world."

The Silver Line has already received nearly one and a half million calls from older people around the country.

Sophie Andrews, CEO, said: "To have the support of The Duchess of Cornwall for our crucial work will assist us enormously to spread awareness of the charity’s services, so that we can reach out to all the vulnerable older people who need us."