Woman becomes first female Beefeater at the Tower of London

For the first time in history a woman has joined the group of protectors of the Crown Jewels on Monday as one of the famous Beefeaters at the Tower of London.

Photo: Woman becomes first female Beefeater at the Tower of London

Woman becomes first female Beefeater at the Tower of London

Moira Cameron has become the first woman to serve as a Yeoman Warder at the tower since the corps of Tower guards was established in 1485.

Cameron, a Warrant Officer Class 2 who joined the army at age 16, was selected over five men who also applied for the vacancy.

Candidates must have been a Warrant Officer or senior noncommissioned officer, have served at least 22 years in the army, Royal Air Force or Royal Marines and hold the Long Service and Good Conduct medal.

There are 35 Yeoman Warders at the Tower plus the Chief Yeoman Warder and Yeoman Gaoler.

While the warders' role was initially to provide security for the Tower - a 900-year-old fortress built by William the Conqueror - and to guard its famous captives, they now spend most of their days guiding visitors and posing patiently for snapshots. They also attend coronations, funerals and charity functions.