Princess Anne has expressed her “deep regret” and “deeply saddened” feelings as she misses a significant memorial ceremony in Canada. This marks her first public comment since her hospitalization last week.
The Princess Royal had planned to fly to Canada for the centenary of the Newfoundland National War Memorial but was compelled to cancel her trip following a concussion from an incident involving a horse. The palace described her injuries as “minor” but included a concussion likely caused by being struck on the head by a horse’s leg or head, told The Telegraph.
The 73-year-old sister of King Charles III spent five nights at Southmead Hospital in Bristol after the accident at her Gatcombe Park estate in Gloucestershire. She left the hospital privately on Friday morning and continues her recovery at home.
During the Canadian memorial ceremony, the remains of an unknown World War I soldier from Newfoundland, who fell in Northern France, were repatriated. In Princess Anne’s absence, her remarks were read by the Canadian Governor-General.
“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,” the princess stated. “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.”
Following her serious accident on June 24, Princess Anne has postponed a further week of engagements. Her scheduled appearances in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, and Gloucester have been delayed, with future engagements to be assessed based on medical advice.
In a written statement after her discharge, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, her husband, expressed gratitude: “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.”
The duration of Anne’s convalescence remains uncertain, but she will receive rehabilitation support at home.
The repatriation of the Unknown Soldier, who served at Beaumont-Hamel during World War I, has been described by the Royal Canadian Legion as “momentous.” He will be interred at the refurbished Newfoundland National War Memorial, rededicated to mark its 100th anniversary.