Princess Royal Resumes Duties Following Head Injury with Charity Appearance
Princess Anne has made a surprising return to public duties following her hospitalization for head injuries sustained in an accident involving a horse. The 73-year-old Princess Royal left fans stunned as she appeared at the Riding for the Disabled Association's (RDA) annual National Championships, marking her first public outing since the incident.
Almost three weeks after suffering a concussion and head wounds at her Gatcombe Park estate in Gloucestershire, Princess Anne was seen in high spirits as she resumed her royal duties. Her return is part of a "phased return" to her responsibilities, starting with her visit to the RDA, a charity she has passionately supported as Patron since November 1971. This year, the RDA is celebrating its 55th anniversary.
During her visit, the Princess met with RDA UK chairman Helena Vega Lozano and the charity’s chief executive Michael Bishop. She engaged with supporters in the arena and presented awards to the winners. The RDA National Championships, a three-day event, is the largest equestrian competition for disabled competitors in the UK, featuring dressage, vaulting, endurance showjumping, carriage driving, performance showing, and countryside challenge classes.
Princess Anne's return to public duties comes amid other royal health concerns, including those of King Charles and Princess Kate. Her unexpected hospitalization had led Buckingham Palace to announce the cancellation of her engagements, including a scheduled trip to Canada. Despite the initial shock and concern for her health, Princess Anne’s appearance has reassured fans of her resilience and dedication.
Her return follows closely after Prince Harry was honored in the US for his Invictus Games initiative, showcasing the ongoing commitment of the royal family to their public roles and charitable efforts.