King Charles and Queen Camilla in fits of giggles as they enjoy the Highland Games ahead of accession anniversary
The King and Queen were all smiles - and giggles - as they attended the annual Braemar Gathering Highland Games in Scotland, just a day before his accession anniversary. Charles looked dapper in a tweed jacket paired with a navy, red and green kilt, while Camilla was elegant in a navy dress adorned with a feather pattern and a matching feathered hat.
The Royal couple were seen sharing several jokes - with King Charles crying tears of laughter at one point - at Saturday's event, which took place not far from their summer residence at Balmoral in Aberdeenshire. Before the Royal arrival, competitors engaged in traditional Highland Games such as tug-of-war and the caber toss, and spectators enjoyed performances by bagpipers, drummers and dancers. The event, which takes place on the first Saturday in September, has been running in its current format since 1832 and has regularly seen attendance from the reigning monarch and other members of the Royal family since 1848. This year marked the second time the King has graced the event as monarch, having frequently attended when he was the Duke of Rothesay.
The 2024 gathering falls just a day before Charles's second accession anniversary, having ascended to the throne immediately following the death of his mother, the nation's longest-reigning monarch, who passed away peacefully at Balmoral Castle on September 8 2022 at the age of 96.
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The King has had a challenging second year as sovereign, having been diagnosed with cancer and undergoing ongoing treatment. His daughter-in-law, the Princess of Wales, has also been battling the disease.
A source revealed that despite the challenges of the past year, King Charles has shown a "determination to be as public as he was able" to demonstrate his ongoing capability to the nation.
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The Queen's unwavering support has been a significant boost for him." Her natural warmth, resilience and sense of humour, as I'm sure any patient will tell you, is a wonderful thing to have," shared the insider with the PA news agency.
Despite a tough year for Her Majesty as well, the source noted there was never a hint of despair, but rather a steadfast resolve to overcome this hurdle, much like many others they've faced before. On the anniversary of his diagnosis, which coincides with his summer holiday at his Aberdeenshire estate in the Scottish Highlands, Charles plans to attend church for private prayer and contemplation.
Looking ahead, the King and Queen are preparing for a significant tour to Australia and Samoa this autumn, marking their first major international journey since the announcement of Charles's cancer.
Camilla recently provided an update on the King's health during the inauguration of a new cancer centre in Bath, stating he was "doing very well".
Although Accession Day typically features gun salutes, this year's commemoration falls on a Sunday when such salutes are traditionally not conducted. Consequently, the military homage by The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery at Hyde Park and The Honourable Artillery Company at the Tower of London will take place on Monday instead.
Both regiments involved had the solemn duty of firing the Death Gun salutes to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's passing two years ago. Almost all of the soldiers and horses taking part had also played a role in the late Queen's state funeral and the proclamation of the King.