Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal, has written to the club’s chairman and chief executive, Tony Rowe, to congratulate the Chiefs on their first European success and second Premiership title, and the letter has been reproduced on their website.

The Princess Royal, who officially opened Exeter’s Sandy Park Stadium in June 2007 and is Patron of the Scottish Rugby Union, wrote: “I would just like to offer my congratulations to all involved in the success of what is a true club effort.

“The impact on Exeter as a city and the South West is obvious, but it also an example of what a Rugby Club can do for its fans, the local community and, more broadly, fans of rugby everywhere, including Scotland! Well done and thank you for all you do for the game of Rugby Union.”

Exeter begin the defence of their European title at home to Glasgow Warriors in Pool B on December 13.

Exeter Chiefs’ Heineken Champions Cup and Gallagher Premiership double last season has received a Royal seal of approval.