Princess Anne, 73, the sister of King Charles III, was hospitalized following a horse-related accident at her Gatcombe Park estate on Sunday night, June 23. The princess was rushed to Southmead Hospital in Bristol, UK, after sustaining head injuries and a concussion. Buckingham Palace stated that her injuries were indicative of a collision with a horse’s head or legs, although the full details of the incident are still uncertain.
Known for her accomplished equestrian skills, Princess Anne was reportedly out for a walk on her estate at the time of the accident. Emergency medical services attended to her at the location before taking her to the hospital for further treatment and she was discharged after five days. While she remains under medical observation, a full recovery is anticipated. Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, her husband, extended his gratitude to the medical team and acknowledged the supportive messages they have received. “We are both deeply touched by all the kind messages we have received from so many people near and far,” Laurence stated.
At the time of the incident, Princess Anne’s children, Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips, were present at the estate. King Charles III has been made aware of his sister’s condition and has expressed his “fondest love and well-wishes” for her swift recovery, along with other members of the royal family.
According to Princess Anne’s daughter, Tindall, her mother experienced subsequent memory loss following the incident. The accident has left Tindall worried about her mother’s health, according to palace sources.
As a result of her injuries, Princess Anne postponed her upcoming weekly engagements, including a state banquet and a trip to Canada. This is unusual for the princess, who is recognized as one of the most industrious royals. Last year, she attended 457 engagements, surpassing all other members of the royal family. Her spokesperson conveyed her apologies for any inconvenience resulting from her sudden absence, but stressed that the decision was guided by her doctors’ advice.
The incident has shed light on the princess’s extensive history with horses. A skilled rider, Anne secured victory in the individual European Three-Day Event at Burghley in 1971 and represented Great Britain at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal. Despite the inherent risks, she has maintained her passion for horse riding, most recently participating in the King’s Trooping the Colour ceremony earlier this month.
The princess’s hospitalization marks the latest in a string of health issues within the royal family. King Charles III recently disclosed his cancer diagnosis, which has necessitated a decrease in his public engagements. During this challenging time, Princess Anne has provided crucial support, assuming her brother’s responsibilities at various official events.
The palace issued a follow-up statement reassuring the public that Princess Anne is in “a comfortable condition” and that a full recovery is expected.