A Lancashire soldier has become the first female Beefeater in ten years – and only the second in history.
Amanda Clark, 42, previously served with the Royal Logistics Corps and completed tours in Germany, Bosnia, the Falkland Islands and Iraq.
Beefeaters are officially called the Yeoman Warders of Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London, and were originally responsible for looking after prisoners in the Tower and safeguarding the crown jewels.
The Yeoman Warders were formed in 1485 by Henry VII, and the Tudor rose still features in the Beefeater uniform today. All Warders are retired members of the armed forces, having served 22 years or more; hold the Long Service and Good Conduct medal; and have reached the rank of warrant officer.
Clark follows in the footsteps of service woman, Moira Cameron, who in 2007 became the first female Yeoman Warder in history.
Speaking about her appointment, Clark said, “Every morning I look up and the tower looks so peaceful.”
“It didn’t really hit me until I put the uniform on for the first time and I realised I am now part of the history of the tower.”
“I can’t stop smiling, I’m really looking forward to exploring more of London and all of the sites like Covent Garden or seeing a show in the West End.”
