The thistle is the national emblem of Scotland and was first used as a symbol on silver coins issued in 1470 by James III.

The Order recognises 16 Scottish men and women who have held public office or who have contributed in a particular way to national life.

It is second only in precedence in England to the Order of the Garter.

Legend has it that the Order was founded in 809 when King Achaius made an alliance with Emperor Charlemagne.

However, it is possible that it was founded by James III, who was responsible for changes in royal symbolism in Scotland.

The King is the Sovereign of the Order, and appointments made to the Order are entirely his personal gift.

Current Knights and Ladies of the Thistle include Lady Marion Fraser, a music teacher and ex-Director of St Mary’s Music School in Edinburgh, and Sir Garth Morrison, previous Chief Scout of the UK.

In addition to the 16 Knights and Ladies, the Queen, the Princess Royal, and the Prince of Wales – known in Scotland as the Duke of Rothesay – have been appointed as Royal Knights of the Thistle.

The Princess of Wales, known in Scotland as the Duchess of Rothesay, wore a coat by Catherine Walker, a Philip Treacy hat and a necklace from Elizabeth II’s collection.