Scottish woman becomes first female Beefeater

LONDON (Reuters) - A 42-year-old Scottish woman became the first female "Beefeater" on Monday, taking up her post as a guardian of Britain's Tower of London.

Moira Cameron started duties as a Yeoman Warder after beating five men to secure the coveted position.

She wore the traditional dress of a scarlet and gold tunic, white ruff, red stockings and black patent leather shoes.

Her duties include guarding the crown jewels, participating in the Ceremony of the Keys and giving visitors guided tours.

Some two million people from around the world visit the Tower of London each year.

Beefeaters, believed to have earned their nickname from their daily ration of meat, date from 1485 when King Henry VII formed a bodyguard.

Today, there are 35 Beefeaters, plus the Chief Yeoman Warder and Yeoman Gaoler. To apply to become a Beefeater, candidates must have earned medals for long service and good conduct.

Cameron, from Argyll in the west of Scotland, joined the army in June 1985.