Tower's first woman Beefeater admits fear of ravens

Moira Cameron confessed to being a "bit frightened" of the birds as she made her first appearance alongside two of her new colleagues on Tower Green.

The 42-year-old, who takes up her post in September, is the first woman to be appointed a Yeoman Warder in their 522-year history.

She said: "It's been a dream of mine for quite a few years... I'm looking forward to my role. All of it."

But as she backed towards a flock of ravens on Tower Green, she confessed: "I am a bit frightened of them."

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The Army Warrant Officer Class 2 is currently Chief Clerk for 145 Brigade of the Adjutant General's Corps in Aldershot. Miss Cameron, of Argyle, has the 22 years service and Long Service and Good Conduct Medal needed to be one of the Tower's 35 Yeomen Warders.

Her new role will involve dealing with the millions of tourists who visit the Tower and, of course, posing for their photos.

She will also attend coronations, lyings-in-state, the Lord Mayor's Show and other state functions.

Miss Cameron was wearing her Number 2 Army dress today because she has not yet been fitted for the red and dark blue uniform.

There had been reports that some Beefeaters were not happy at a woman joining their ranks.

Chief Yeoman Warder John Keohane, 56, said some had been "slightly concerned", but added: "All we are doing is reflecting the change in a world as we see it."