UK: What Is Special About Kate Middleton's Historic New Title?

In a symbol of support in her battle against cancer, King Charles of Britain has bestowed a new historic title upon Princess Kate Middleton - Most Noble Order of the Garter, the Order of the Companions of Honour. She will now be known as the Royal Companion of The Order of the Companions of Honour, one of the highest titles in Britain. The Princess of Wales is the first royal family member to be appointed to The Order.

Middleton was bestowed the title as part of a St. George's Day tradition founded by King George V in 1917. Along with the Princess, two other titles were bestowed upon Prince William and the Queen Consort Camilla of the royal family. 

Why Is Kate Middleton's New Title Making A Buzz?

The new title is one of the highest honours of Britain and is awarded to those who gave excellent contributions to arts, medicine science and public service. The previous recipients of the title were Sir Elton John and J.K. Rowling. The title was given on account of the Princess of Wales 'taking on more responsibilities', said a report by The Independent. Only 60 members can belong to the honour at once, and they must bear the initials CH in their name. 

In addition to the new title, Kate Middleton holds several others, such as that of the Princess of Wales, Duchess of Cambridge, Duchess of Cornwall and Baroness of Renfrew. She also holds several military titles, such as that of the Colonel of the Irish Guard, Royal Honourary Air Commodore of the R.A.F Coningsby and Colonel-in-Chief of the First Queen's Dragoon Guards. 

The Princess had been diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, just like her father-in-law, the King, and would find the title to be a great honour. Her chemotherapy treatment had required her to step away from public duty, and this had caused a great deal of speculation about her condition. The new title would be a much-needed boost of support from the family to the Princess. 

On the same occasion, Prince William was honoured with the title of Great Master of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, and the Queen Consort received the title of Grand Master and First or Principal Dame Grand Cross of, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. Awarding the titles coincided with Prince William and Princess Kate's firstborn, Prince Louis' sixth birthday, making for a pleasant surprise for the royal family.