Queen and Duke of Edinburgh honored with membership of the Order of the Thistle in Scotland

In a prestigious ceremony at St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh, the Queen and Prince Edward were formally inducted as members of the Order of the Thistle, Scotland's highest order of chivalry. Alongside them, leading figures such as Baroness Helena Kennedy and Sir Geoff Palmer were also recognized for their contributions to Scotland. The King, as the sovereign of the order, personally appointed the new members, including the Queen as a Royal Lady and Prince Edward as a Royal Knight. The ceremony, attended by members of the royal family and other Knights and Ladies of the order, featured a procession into the cathedral with traditional mantels and Thistle stars. The King's personal selection of individuals to join the order highlighted their significant roles in various fields, from human rights to academia. The Queen's longstanding patronage of charitable organizations in Scotland, such as Maggie's Cancer Care Centres, was also acknowledged. The royal visit to Scotland, known as Holyrood Week, included various engagements and culminated in a celebration at Edinburgh Castle to mark the city's 900th anniversary. Despite a shorter visit due to the general election, the King and Queen participated in ceremonial events and engagements, showcasing their commitment to Scotland and its institutions. The Order of the Thistle induction ceremony symbolized the royal family's ties to Scottish traditions and charitable causes. Amid the formalities, the royal family faced protests from anti-monarchy activists, underscoring the ongoing debates surrounding the monarchy's role in modern society. Despite the disruptions, the ceremony proceeded smoothly, with the King and Queen engaging with key figures from St Giles' Cathedral and the Order of the Thistle. The event also featured cultural performances and interactions with local dignitaries, highlighting the royal family's engagement with the community during their visit to Scotland.