Knighted Scottish penguin given another military honour

A world-famous penguin knight has waddled up to receive another high military honour, receiving the title of Brigadier.

Brigadier Sir Nils Olav, a king penguin at Scotland's Edinburgh Zoo, was awarded the title during a visit from the King of Norway's Guard yesterday.

More than 50 soldiers attended the ceremony for their official mascot, and Brigadier Olav carefully inspected them as he paraded up the zoo's Penguin Walk.

Brigadier Olav's adoption at the zoo was organised by Major Niles Egelien in 1972, and he was named after Major Egelien and the King of Norway.

The guardsman visit Brigadier Olav when they are in town every few years and give him a new promotion.

He has so far worked his way up eight military ranks, and was knighted in 2008.

Barbara Smith, from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, said yesterday's ceremony was a "very proud moment and represents the close collaboration between our two countries, Scotland and Norway".

Brigadier David Allfrey, Producer and Chief Executive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said Brigadier Olav's promotions "couldn't be a more charming tradition".

"At the Tattoo we of course have many inspecting officers but this is by far my favourite. Congratulations, Brigadier Olav!"