Resplendent in the robes and plumed hat of the Order, The Queen is pictured as she leaves St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh, having installed two new Knights of the Order in July 1955. Her Majesty’s train-bearer on this occasion was Lord James Douglas-Hamilton, younger son of the 14th Duke of Hamilton, who, in 1997, was created Baron Selkirk of Douglas. The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle is the highest honour in Scotland and is second only in precedence to the Order of the Garter. The Order honours Scottish men and women who have held public office or who have contributed in a particular way to national life. The Queen is Sovereign Head of the Order and the Knights Brethren of the Thistle are appointed at her sole behest.