Princess Anne Smiles, Resumes Royal Duties After Horse Injury

Princess Anne was all smiles as she made a surprise return to royal duties this afternoon, almost three weeks after being hospitalized from a horse-related injury.

The 73-year-old Princess Royal sustained a concussion and minor injuries on June 23 at her Gatcombe Park estate. Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, and she spent five nights in a Bristol hospital recovering.

Her appearance today marked a “gradual” return to her duties, as stated by the Palace. Anne attended the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships at Hartpury University and Hartpury College, an event celebrating its 55th anniversary this year.

Anne first became the RDA’s Patron in 1971 before taking on the role of President in 1986. “We are honored to welcome the Princess Royal to our flagship event, the RDA National Championships, at which we are celebrating our 55th anniversary and delighted that she has chosen to join us as she returns to royal duties,” said Chief Executive Michael Bishop. He added that Princess Anne holds a special place in the hearts of the RDA community, providing invaluable support for over five decades.

Despite being an experienced horsewoman, this incident is not her first horse-related injury. She previously suffered a concussion while riding in the 1976 Olympic Games. Following the recent incident, Anne had to postpone her upcoming engagements, missing the Japanese state visit and a planned trip to Canada.

“The Princess Royal has sustained minor injuries and concussion following an incident on the Gatcombe Park estate yesterday evening,” said a Palace statement. “Her Royal Highness remains in Southmead Hospital, Bristol, as a precautionary measure for observation and is expected to make a full and swift recovery.”

Her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, extended his gratitude to the hospital staff for their care, expertise, and kindness during her stay. “I would like to extend my warmest thanks to all the team at Southmead Hospital for their care, expertise, and kindness during my wife’s short stay,” he said.

Princess Anne, who is considered one of the royal family’s hardest-working members, has already attended over 200 engagements this year. She was released from the hospital on June 28 and expressed her frustration at being unable to attend her planned Canada trip, which was in commemoration of the First World War.

In a statement, she said: “It is with deep regret that I am unable to be with you today, as you commemorate the brave efforts and sacrifices of the members of the Newfoundland Regiment who went into battle on the first day of the Somme. I have fond memories of joining you in 2016, on the 99th occasion that the people of this Island commemorated the Battle of Beaumont Hamel, and I am deeply saddened that I’m unable to join you again, and I send you my warmest best wishes on this special day of commemoration.”

Source: Bristol Daily Post, Royal Chronicle