Robes and regalia as Queen Elizabeth's chosen knights parade

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2007

WINDSOR, England (AFP) — Queen Elizabeth II took part in the Order of the Garter service Monday, an English tradition which sees her chosen band of knights and ladies parade in all their feathers and finery.

The monarch was joined by the select great and good at the annual service at St George's Chapel in her Windsor Castle home, west of London.

The Most Noble Order of the Garter is the oldest order of chivalry in the world, established in 1348 by the queen's ancestor king Edward III.

Wearing their distinctive white ostrich-plumes, blue velvet robes and black velvet hats, the knights and ladies were watched by about 5,000 members of the public as they walked from the castle to the chapel for the church service.

The order has a maximum of 24 non-royal...