William celebrates becoming a Knight of the Thistle

IN the unseasonal Edinburgh fog and under the stony gaze of the statue of Charles II, an astonishing parade of colourful hats and fascinators were in evidence yesterday as distinguished guests crossed the cobbled square outside the Cathedral of St Giles.

The menfolk were equally smartly dressed, though barely a kilt was to be seen. For them, sharp suits and morning coats were the order of the day.

Around 1000 people, all clutching their invitations and photo ID, crammed into the cathedral to witness Prince William – known as the Earl of Strathearn while in Scotland – being installed by the Queen as a Knight of the Most Ancient and Noble Order of the Thistle.

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