Prince William appointed a Royal Knight of the Garter

Prince William was appointed a Royal Knight of the Garter by Queen Elizabeth today. Membership of the Order of the Garter is limited to the monarch of the Commonwealth realms, the Prince of Wales and not more than 24 companion members. Prince William will be a royal knight and appointed in addition to this quota.

Conferment of the honour, the most senior British order of chivalry, is in the gift of Queen Elizabeth, without any advice from politicians or government ministers.

Prince William was appointed a royal knight at a service in St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle and will become the 1,000th knight in the register.

William wore an ostrich-plume cap and velvet robes for the ceremony and was watched by his girlfriend, Kate Middleton, along with Prince Harry, the Duchess of Cornwall and Sophie, the Countess of Wessex.

This was the first time Kate Middleton attended an official royal public event.

The Royal Forum