AS THEY PREPARE TO FLY THE FLAG FOR THE U.K. IN FRANCE THE KING AND QUEEN WIN PUBLIC VOTE AFTER A SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR

As the King and Queen prepare for their state visit to France later this month, the monarch has won the hearts of the nation, with a majority of people giving him the royal seal of approval.

- EMILY NASH

Of 2,020 adults questioned in the UK last month, 59% said the King was doing a "good job", while 58% said the institution of the monarchy is good for Britain, according to a new YouGov tracker survey.

A majority - 53% - also said the royal family was good value for money.

Next week the King and Queen will fly the flag for the UK overseas, carrying out a busy programme of engagements in Paris and Bordeaux, five months after the visit was postponed due to civil unrest across the Channel.

The royal couple will attend a ceremony of remembrance at the Arc de Triomphe and will be guests of honour at a state banquet hosted by President Macron at the Palace of Versailles.

His Majesty will become the first British monarch to address the French Senate, while Her Majesty will launch a new Franco-British literary prize alongside First Lady Brigitte Macron at the Bibliothèque Nationale de France.

A PACKED ITINERARY

As France plays host to the Rugby World Cup and prepares to hold the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics in Paris, the royal visitors will also meet sporting stars and community sports groups.