Camilla bestowed rare honour by the Queen
The Queen has bestowed a rare honour on the Duchess of Cornwall, appointing her to the Order of the Garter.
The appointment makes Camilla an official "Royal Lady of the Order of the Garter", which is the most senior order of knighthood in the British honours system. It was founded by King Edward III in 1348.
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The appointment makes the Duchess of Cornwall an official 'Royal Lady of the Order of the Garter'. Getty
As per the rules of the system, only 24 companions can be granted the prestigious title — as well as the Queen herself and several members of the senior royal family.
The companions are traditionally known as "Knights of the Garter", and are personally chosen by the Queen to honour those with significant contributions to the nation, public office, or who personally serve the monarch.
It is tradition for the Queen to host the annual Order of the Garter ceremony at Windsor Castle every June. Getty
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With Camilla, Baroness Valerie Ann Amos was also appointed as a Lady Companion, and former Prime Minister Tony Blair was bestowed the title of Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter.
Currently, Prince William and Prince Charles also stand as Knights of the Garter. In their lifetimes, Sir Winston Churchill and Prince Philip also held the title.
In June, it is tradition for the Queen to hold the annual Order of the Garter ceremony — a respected celebration, where the knights process to Windsor Castle in ceremonial dress and accompanied by a band.
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