Rod Stewart is joined by Penny Lancaster to receive knighthood at Buckingham Palace: 'I promise to wear it well'

The veteran rocker was joined by his model wife and youngest children Alistair and Aiden 
Knighted: The Duke of Cambridge knights Rod Stewart
Jonathan Brady/PA
Jennifer Ruby12 October 2016
The Weekender

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Rod Stewart has finally been given a knighthood at Buckingham Palace after being honoured in the Queen’s 90th birthday honours list.

The British rocker, who has promised to ‘wear it well’, was joined by statuesque model wife Penny Lancaster and his two youngest children Alastair, 10, and Aiden, 5, on Tuesday.

After the ceremony, conducted by the Duke of Cambridge, the 71-year-old said:

“It’s a monumental honour... I couldn't ask for anything more. I thank Her Majesty and promise to wear it well."

Talking about his brief meeting with Prince William, he said: “We talked about music and he said 'It's great that you're still going' and I said: 'I have to - I've got eight children.

Rod Stewart is joined by Penny Lancaster and sons Alistair and Aiden (Gareth Fulller/PA )
Gareth Fulller/PA

“He congratulated me on my long career - and I said how happy this made me. I just wish my mum and dad had been here to see it.”

The veteran star certainly made sure that he was suited and booted for the occasion, wearing a pair of tartan trousers to honour his Celtic heritage.

Rod Stewart is knighted by The Duke of Cambridge (Jonathan Brady/PA )
Jonathan Brady/PA

He was honoured in recognition for his services to charity and music after a career that has spanned six decades.

Back in 2013, the singer seemed a little confused as to why other veteran musicans had been knighted and he hadn’t.

“Mick (Jagger) doesn’t pay taxes here and Tom (Jones) lives in America. If my time comes it will. But if it doesn’t, I’m not bothered," he told the Radio Times.

Rod Stewart - In pictures

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