Princess Anne Resumes Royal Duties After Hospitalization

Princess Anne has resumed her royal duties after experiencing a recent hospitalization. The Princess Royal, aged 73, had encountered a concussion and minor injuries from a horse-related incident. Her return to public life was marked on Friday, July 12, with an appearance at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships at Hartpury University and Hartpury College in Gloucestershire.

During her visit, Princess Anne shared with Helena Vega Lozano, chair of RDA UK, that she couldn’t recall the incident that caused her hospitalization. As reported by the Daily Mail, the injury was likely due to the impact from a horse’s head or legs.

On June 24, Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles III’s younger sister had been hospitalized following an “incident” at Gatcombe Park on June 23. The palace’s statement confirmed that Princess Anne had sustained minor injuries and a concussion, and she remained in Southmead Hospital, Bristol, for observation as a precaution. The statement expressed confidence in her full and swift recovery, adding that King Charles and the Royal Family sent their love and well-wishes for her speedy recovery.

Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, Princess Anne’s husband, provided an update outside the hospital, stating that she was recovering well, albeit slowly. He expressed their profound gratitude to the medical team and hospital support staff for their expert care, as well as to the emergency services who assisted at the scene.

Princess Anne was discharged from the hospital on June 28 and has been convalescing at her Gloucestershire country home with rehabilitation support. Sir Tim Laurence issued a statement expressing his thanks to the team at Southmead Hospital for their care and kindness during Princess Anne’s stay.

An accomplished equestrian, Princess Anne competed in the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal. She was also seen riding horseback last month during Trooping the Colour as part of King Charles’ birthday celebrations, skillfully navigating the parade through London on her horse. Although her full return to royal duties will be gradual, she will continue to resume her responsibilities as she recovers. The planned engagements during her hospitalization, including a trip to Canada, were postponed.

Due to her recovery, Princess Anne also missed the state dinner held on June 25 in honor of the emperor of Japan. A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace had announced that, based on doctors’ advice, her planned engagements for the week would be postponed. Regrettably, this included her presence at the state banquet.

Source: Daily Mail