The legacy of the Rugby World Cup in Twickenham will come under scrutiny with a new panel set up by Richmond Council.

The Rugby World Cup scrutiny panel was formed to ensure the benefits of the rugby extravaganza is maximised for the borough.

Chairman of the panel, Councillor Gareth Evans, said the task group is about finding extra initiatives to help businesses, community groups and sports clubs get the most out of the sporting event at Twickenham stadium next year.

An array of events are already in the planning for the council's festival of rugby, which hopes to capitalise on visitors to Twickenham.

It will run from May until October, with a focus on the arts, music and drama, parks, sports and a fan zone for supporters to watch live games.

Councillor Pamela Fleming, cabinet member for business, said: "The borough’s businesses have done well in meeting the challenges of the recession.

"The Rugby World Cup is a great opportunity for exploring new markets."