Prince Charles anointed musician Elton John as a member of the Order of the Companions of Honour in a ceremony at Windsor Castle. It is said to be one of the highest awards that can be bestowed by Queen Elizabeth II, to citizens in Britain and across the Commonwealth.
It was introduced in 1917 by the Queen’s grandfather King George V. It grants recognition to people who have made significant contributions in the field of arts, science and medicine lasting over a long period of time.
The other members include British environmentalist David Attenborough, Canadian author Margaret Atwood and British athlete Sebastian Coe. In the past, it had members like British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and scientist Stephen Hawking. It can have a maximum of 65 members, excluding the sovereign.
Elton John was elated after getting the gold medallion with the inscription ”In action faithful and in honour clear.”
The 74 year old singer and songwriter was knighted by the Queen in 1998, a year after the death of Princess Diana.
