William created Royal Knight of the Garter

Updated 17.31 Mon Jun 16 2008

Keywords: windsor castle, royal knight of the garter, the queen, royal family, prince william, britain, royalty

Prince William has been appointed to the most senior British order of chivalry at a service in Windsor.

He was made a Royal Knight of the Garter by the Queen, who bestows the honour on people who have held public office, contributed to national life or served the Queen personally.

William becomes a Royal Knight Companion and the 1,000th Knight in the Register.

Wearing the Order's full regalia - an ostrich plumed hat and velvet robes - William stood next to his father, the Prince of Wales, as the Knights made the traditional procession down the Castle hill for the annual church service.

His girlfriend Kate Middleton, accompanied by Prince Harry arrived at the Galilee Porch entrance in a silver Mondeo.

Dressed in a black jacket and skirt, she pulled a matching hat low over her eyes but was spotted chatting to the Duchess of Cornwall and Countess of Wessex and laughing with Harry as William passed by.

It is understood to be the first time Miss Middleton has attended a formal and official Royal public occasion.

William looked relaxed as he walked into the chapel with his father, chatting to his uncles, the Duke of York and the Earl of Wessex.

At the end of the 45 minute service the Royals left through the West Door and William departed in a carriage with Charles, Camilla and Andrew.

The Prince of Wales, received the honour in 1958, the Princess Royal in 1994, and the Duke of York and the Earl of Wessex in 2006.

William's honour was announced on St George's Day, but the chivalric and installation ceremonies traditionally take place on a Monday in June, known as Garter Day.