Giant rugby balls have returned to Whitton and Twickenham in celebration of the RBS Six Nations Championship.

The 8ft tall fibreglass eggs are back by popular demand, following a starring role at the Rugby World Cup last autumn.

They are emblazoned with the colours and accompanying text of the home nations competing in the tournament.

The English ball on Twickenham Embankment, for example, features the lyrics of the team's anthem Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.

Ireland is represented with a huge ball in Nelson Road, Whitton, Wales on Mortlake Green and Scotland in Ham Village Green.

England, who have made a winning start to the tournament, are due to host Ireland at Twickenham on February 27 and Wales on March 12.

Richmond Council's cabinet member for sport Councillor Meena Bond said: "It's a delight to see these landmark attractions reintroduced to the borough to show our support for the home nations.

"I'm sure many visitors and residents will take the chance to get in a quick selfie as they take in the magic of Twickenham on a rugby day. It's great to see the Rugby World Cup legacy live on in Twickenham - the home of rugby."