Princess Anne made a notable return to public equestrian duties at this year’s Trooping the Colour parade, riding horseback for the first time since suffering a major head injury last year at her Gatcombe Park estate. Wearing the Full Mounted Ceremonial uniform of the Blues and Royals, she carried the Gold Stick in her role as Colonel and Personal Aide-de-Camp to King Charles. This marked a significant milestone as Anne, soon to turn 75, had been forced to withdraw from several public engagements, including the Japanese State Visit and a planned trip to Canada, but gradually resumed duties locally earlier this year.

At the parade, Princess Anne was one of only three royals to ride horseback, alongside her brother Prince Edward and nephew Prince William, while her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, rode in a carriage with Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh. An accomplished equestrian who competed in the 1976 Summer Olympics, Anne’s return highlighted her resilience and continued dedication to royal duties despite her recent health challenges.