Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, is leaving operational service with the British armed forces after more than 7½ years of full-time military service to focus on royal duties and charity work, Kensington Palace announced on Thursday.


William, who has served as a search-and-rescue helicopter pilot in Wales since 2010, completed his final shift earlier this week.



He will continue to support the work of the Queen and the Royal family through a number of official engagements, both at home and abroad along with his wife Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge.


"The Duke is currently considering a number of options for public service," a release said.


William, who is second in line to the British throne, will focus on his work on endangered species and is "considering a number of options for public service."


His wife Kate gave birth to the couple's first child, Prince George, in July.


William, Kate and their newborn son are expected to move into their official residence at Kensington Palace in London in the coming weeks.