June 24: Princess Anne has been hospitalized following an accident involving a horse, resulting in a concussion. This incident adds to the health issues currently affecting Britain’s royal family, as both King Charles III and the Princess of Wales have been dealing with health problems that limit their public appearances.
Princess Anne, the 73-year-old sister of the king, was admitted to the hospital as a precaution after sustaining injuries on Sunday while walking at her Gatcombe Park estate in southwestern England. Buckingham Palace confirmed that doctors believe her injuries are consistent with an impact from a horse’s head or legs. The palace reassured the public that Princess Anne is expected to make a full recovery.
“The king has been kept closely informed and joins the whole royal family in sending his fondest love and well-wishes to the princess for a speedy recovery,” the palace stated.
This accident is the latest in a series of health scares for the House of Windsor, with both King Charles and Kate, the Princess of Wales, receiving treatment for cancer. These health issues have reduced the royal family’s ability to maintain a full schedule of public engagements, with Princess Anne and Queen Camilla taking on more responsibilities as Charles and Kate focus on their health.
Princess Anne, known for her dedicated work ethic, was the hardest working member of the royal family last year, participating in 457 engagements compared to the king’s 425, William’s 172, and Kate’s 123, according to the Daily Telegraph.
Due to her injuries, Princess Anne has had to cancel her attendance at a state dinner in honor of the emperor of Japan on Tuesday and a planned trip to Canada later in the week.
“There will definitely be a sort of gap in the royal family lineup for the next few days,” royal expert Robert Hardman told the BBC. “But you know, obviously she’s got to get well.”
Princess Anne has earned her reputation as a stalwart of the royal family through decades of dedicated service, performing numerous awards presentations, ceremonial appearances, and building dedications.
