Royal news live: Anne’s injuries could be ‘worse than concussion’ as new Harry and Meghan portraits released
Princess Anne’s injuries could be “worse than concussion” it has been claimed after she spent a fifth night in hospital.
The Princess Royal, 73, was hospitalised with a concussion and minor injuries on Sunday night after being kicked by a horse.
Former Royal Editor Duncan Larcombe told GB News: “It certainly suggests that perhaps whatever had happened to her, it’s worse than concussion.”
This comes as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been reimagined as famous royals from history in controversial new portraits as Princess Anne spends a fifth night in hospital.
Harry was portrayed as Bonnie Prince Charlie while Meghan was reimagined as Dame Elizabeth Grey.
Artist Dan Llywelyn Hall said: “In Harry’s case, I have entered the story before he met Meghan the young party-goer with his future very much in the balance, a bit like the Bonnie Prince I have likened him to.
“I thought putting Meghan in the role of the White Queen, who was a Queen Consort and possibly the most influential ‘outsider’ in Royal history.”
Key Points
Princess Anne’s injury ‘may be worse than concussion’, expert fears
Harry and Meghan’s new portraits unveiled
Prince Harry ‘dragged kicking and screaming’ to hand over personal emails
Princess Anne remains in hospital for 5th night
Prince Harry accused of destroying evidence in phone hacking case
Prince Harry ordered by court to explain deleted messages
17:04 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry has been ordered to explain why messages between him and his Spare ghostwriter were deleted as part of his case against the publisher of The Sun.
Mr Justice Fancourt told the High Court today that the messages, sent on the social media app Signal, “were destroyed sometime between 2021 and 2023, well after this claim [against News Group Newspapers] was underway”.
“The position is not transparently clear about what exactly happened and needs to be made so by a witness statement from the claimant himself explaining what happened,” he said.
‘Heartbroken’ Prince Harry not receiving updates on Charles and Kate’s cancer treatment
17:00 , Emma Guinness
The Duke of Sussex has allegedly been left in the dark when it comes to the progress of King Charles’s and Kate Middleton’s cancer treatment.
A royal expert has speculated that this is because the family fears that Prince Harry, 39, could put this information into the public domain.
Phil Dampier told Fabulous: “There’s no way that The King or Prince William would share details of the cancer treatment with Harry.
“They simply don’t trust him and would fear that anything they told him about Charles or Catherine would end up in the public domain, either in the press or on a podcast or social media.
“We all know how bad relations have got in the last couple of years and I’m afraid it’s going to take a very long time before there’s any chance of a reconciliation.”
He added: “If Harry feels left out and sidelined I’m afraid that’s his own fault.
“Harry might be heartbroken not to hear from his family but he only has himself to blame.”
Princess Anne’s injury ‘may be worse than concussion’, expert fears
16:38 , Emma Guinness
Following the news that the Princess Royal has spent a fifth night in hospital, a royal expert has speculated that she is suffering from something “worse than concussion.”
Princess Anne, 73, was hospitalised on Sunday night after being kicked by a horse at her Gloucestershire estate.
Buckingham Palace then confirmed that she had sustained a concussion and minor injuries.
Former Royal Editor Duncan Larcombe told GB News of the princess’s extended hospital stay: “It certainly suggests that perhaps whatever had happened to her, it’s worse than concussion, because I don’t think you’d be kept that long in hospital for a simple concussion.
“It’s more bad health news for a family that, as we know this year, has had a bit of a horrific start.”
Prince Harry honoured in US for Invictus Games work
16:05 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry will be honoured in the US for his efforts to “change the world” through the Invictus Games.
The Duke of Sussex, 39, founded the games in 2014 to celebrate the sporting achievements of wounded, sick or injured service people.
He is now set to be presented with the Pat Tillman Award for Service, which is for individuals who are changing the world for the better through sport.
The award is sponsored by the sporting channel ESPN and the channel’s president said it was a “privilege” to be able to recognise the honourees.
ESPN vice-president of production Kate Jackson said: “It’s our privilege to recognise three incredible individuals – Steve Gleason, Dawn Staley and Prince Harry.
“These honourees have used their platforms to change the world and make it more inclusive for marginalised and suffering communities, demonstrating incredible resilience, positivity and perseverance, and we’re thrilled to celebrate them at the 2024 ESPYs.”
Prince Harry ‘dragged kicking and screaming’ to hand over personal emails
15:33 , Emma Guinness
The Duke of Sussex was “dragged kicking and screaming” by the publisher of The Sun to hand over his personal messages, the High Court heard today.
Harry, 39, was accused by News Group Newspapers (NGN) of deleting messages between himself and the ghostwriter of his 2023 memoir Spare after starting legal proceedings against the publisher.
He was also accused of “creating an obstacle” course for NGN to access his existing messages.
Harry’s lawyers accused NGN of going on a “classic fishing expedition” and hypocrisy as they deleted “millions of emails” to hide “incriminating evidence”.
The publisher is accused of using illegal information-gathering methods including phone hacking.
NGN, who owned the now-defunct News of the World, denies all wrongdoing at The Sun.
A ruling is expected later this afternoon ahead of a full trial in January.
Prince Harry accused of destroying evidence in phone hacking case
14:23 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry has been accused of destroying evidence as his phone hacking court case against the publisher of The Sun continues today.
The Duke of Sussex was accused by Attorney Anthony Hudson at the High Court of the “shocking” and “extraordinary” act of deleting text messages with the ghostwriter of his 2023 memoir Spare.
Hudson said the documentation they were seeking from Harry’s time in the royal family and former staff was being kept deliberately behind an “obstacle course”.
But Harry’s defence has since called out the accusation and said that News Group Newspapers was participating in a “classic fishing expedition” to obtain information they should have already asked for.
“NGN’s tactical and sluggish approach to disclosure wholly undermines the deliberately sensational assertion that the claimant (Harry) has not properly carried out the disclosure exercise,” attorney David Sherborne said in court papers.
“This is untrue. In fact, the claimant has already made clear that he has conducted extensive searches, going above and beyond his obligations.”
Princess Diana letters could sell for £23,000
14:00 , Emma Guinness
A collection of letters written by the late Princess Diana during her early marriage to the then Prince Charles could sell for up to £23,000 at auction today.
Reflecting on her honeymoon, she said the pair had a “glorious time” and described it as a “tremendous success.”
The letters will go under the hammer at Julien’s Auctions in Los Angeles with an estimated sale price of up to $28,000 (£23,000).
Prince Harry says grief will ‘eat you up inside’
13:00 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry has shed new light on how he coped with the untimely death of Princess Diana when he was just 12 years old.
In a new interview as the ambassador for the charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers, he explained that any other children who find themselves bereaved shouldn’t suppress their emotions.
“That’s the hardest thing, especially for kids, which is, ‘I don’t want to talk about it because it will make me sad,’” he told the charity, which supports children who have lost parents in the military.
“But once realising that if I do talk about it, and I’m celebrating their life, then actually, things become easier, as opposed to this, ‘I am just not going to talk about it and that’s the best form of coping,’ when in fact it’s not.”
He added: “If you suppress this for too long, you cannot suppress it forever, it is not sustainable and it will eat away at you inside.”
Harry and Meghan immortalised in new paintings – but viewers aren’t impressed
12:00 , Emma Guinness
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been immortalised in new paintings by an artist who reimagined them as influential royals from the past.
Prince Harry, 39, was portrayed by artist Dan Llywelyn Hall as Bonnie Prince Charlie, the Young Pretender, Charles Edward Stuart.
Meanwhile, Meghan Markle, 42, was reimagined as Dame Elizabeth Grey in a portrait called the Returning White Queen.
The paintings have not gone down well with many viewers on social media.
One wrote: “Those pics have made my day, on the floor laughing with the tears rolling down my back.”
A second said they were worse than the new, red portrait of the King, adding: “Worse than Charles portrait and that’s saying something.” [sic]
Explaining the thinking behind the portraits, the artist said: “In Harry’s case, I have entered the story before he met Meghan the young party-goer with his future very much in the balance, a bit like the Bonnie Prince I have likened him to.
“I thought putting Meghan in the role of the White Queen, who was a Queen Consort and possibly the most influential ‘outsider’ in Royal history, might have a fine irony to it and not necessarily beyond the realms of reality.”
Royal family bid goodbye to Japanese state visitors
11:28 , Emma Guinness
The Royal Family have thanked the Emperor and Empress of Japan for coming to the UK for a three-day state visit.
The two couples said a fond goodbye after the successful visit, which saw them undertake several engagements including a state banquet.
Costs of Harry and Meghan’s California mansion ‘piling up'
11:00 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly shelling out as much as seven figures a year to maintain their £12 million California mansion.
Eric Bramlett, a high-end real estate company owner, likened the property to “a small boutique hotel”.
“Managing a $14 million ($21 million) mansion like Harry and Meghan’s in Montecito takes a lot of work,” he told the Express.
“It’s like running a small boutique hotel with residential service.
“The costs pile up quick, but it comes with luxury living.”
Harry says Diana would have wanted him ‘to be happy'
10:00 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry opened up about his grief after losing his mother at the age of 12 and admitted that he found it difficult to let himself be happy.
Harry, now 39, made the revelation about the 1997 loss of the Princes of Wales while speaking as a global ambassador for Scotty’s Little Soldiers, which provides support to bereaved military children.
“It’s so easy as a kid to think or convince yourself…. you convince yourself that the person you’ve lost wants you, or you need to be sad for as long as possible to prove to them that they are missed.
“But then there’s this realisation of, no, they must want me to be happy,” he said.
Princess Anne spends a fifth night in hospital
09:40 , Emma Guinness
Buckingham Palace has confirmed to The Independent that Princess Anne has spent a fifth night in hospital after being kicked by a horse.
The Princess Royal, 73, suffered a concussion and minor injuries after the incident on her Gloucestershire estate on Sunday evening.
Her husband Admiral Sir Tim Laurence told reporters outside the Bristol hospital where she remains that the princess is “recovering slowly”.
Taylor Swift’s boyfriend describes royal children as ‘an absolute delight'
09:00 , Emma Guinness
Taylor Swift’s boyfriend was full of praise for Prince George and Princess Charlotte after they attended her Eras Tour concert at Wembley with Prince William.
The American footballer Travis Kelce posed with the youngsters and their father, Prince William, for a selfie with Swift after the concert took place.
He said: “They were an absolute delight to me, I wasn’t sure if I was supposed to bow to them or curtsy, or just be an American idiot and shake their hand.”
Kelce added that he addressed the Prince of Wales as “your highness” and joked that he had never felt so emasculated.”
Meghan Markle ‘desperate’ to reconnect with Kate Middleton
08:00 , Emma Guinness
The Duchess of Sussex is reportedly “desperate” to reconnect with the Princess of Wales amid her ongoing cancer battle.
“Meghan’s desperate to come across as the bigger person and end this feud between them – appearing like some sort of royal saviour could only do her image good,” a source told OK! magazine.
“When Kate gets back into action, their hope is that it might take some of the heat off them and possibly trigger a truce with her and William, and with the king, too.”
Harry opens up on grief
07:09 , Emma Guinness
The Duke of Sussex has advised a group of bereaved military children they cannot “suppress” their grief forever as it would eventually “eat away” at them.
Harry met the youngsters during his brief UK visit in May and, in a new video, discusses coping with loss with Nikki Scott, founder of Armed Forces charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers which is supporting the children.
During the 20th anniversary year of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales, Harry revealed in a newspaper interview that he spent nearly 20 years “not thinking” about his mother’s death and eventually got help after two years of “total chaos”.
Speaking after he joined 50 children for a session of fun activities hosted by Scotty’s in May, the duke told the charity boss about his pep talk about coping with grief. He said to Mrs Scott: “But that’s what I was saying to (the children), if you suppress this for too long, you can’t suppress it forever, it’s not sustainable and it will eat away at you inside.”
When she highlighted the importance of a bereaved child celebrating their parent’s life, Harry replied that it was hard for a youngster whose mindset was “I don’t want to talk about it because it makes me sad”.
He added: “But realising that if I do talk about it, and I’m celebrating their life, then actually things become easier. As opposed to ‘I’m not going to talk about it and that’s the best form of coping’ – when in fact it’s not.”
King Charles wishes Hello Kitty a happy birthday
06:00 , Emma Guinness
King Charles demonstrated his popular culture knowledge at the recent state banquet at Buckingham Palace.
Referencing his grandchildren’s love of Pokémon to the Japanese emperor and empress, he also took the opportunity to wish Hello Kitty a happy 50th birthday in his speech.
The Monarch noted how the UK and Japan share a lot more than just “how much we enjoy tea and talking about the weather.”
Public holiday declared for King Charles visit
04:00 , Emma Guinness
A public holiday has been declared by The States of Jersey to mark King Charles’s visit on 15 July.
Chief minister Lyndon Farnham described the upcoming visit as a “rare and historic” occasion and said that it would cost the taxpayer around £700,000 in wages.
The visit next month is the first from a reigning Monarch since 2005.
Princess Diana’s dresses expected to sell for £630,000 at auction
02:00 , Emma Guinness
Two gowns worn by the late Princess Diana are expected to sell for £630,000 when they go under the hammer today (27 June).
They are being sold by Julien’s Auctions in what has been billed as the largest private sale of the princess’s belongings.
The dresses were worn by the royal in the late 1980s, according to reports, and are expected to fetch £315,000 each.
Queen Camilla tells young book fans they are ‘all going to be stars'
Wednesday 26 June 2024 22:00 , Emma Guinness
Queen Camilla today told young readers that they are “all going to be stars” on a visit to a school in London.
The Queen Consort was given a tour of Christ Church School in Chelsea, south-west London and had the opportunity to learn about its various initiatives to encourage reading.
Gifting books to the library, she told over 200 pupils to keep reading “forever and ever”.
She said: “It is going to take you off on millions of adventures all over the world. The more you read as you grow up, it’s going to be bigger and better for all of you.
“Keep on reading, and by the time you are grown up, you are all going to be stars.”
Royal family ‘on the ropes’ with ongoing health concerns
Wednesday 26 June 2024 20:00 , Emma Guinness
Following Princess Anne’s hospitalisation and the various health problems being experienced by the royal family, one expert has said they are “on the ropes”.
Author Christopher Andersen told the Daily Beast: “As the senior royals get older, there will inevitably be more health challenges. But it does seem odd that we’re witnessing one medical problem after another being heaped on the new sovereign in rapid succession.
“One gets the sense that the Royal Family is on the ropes. I think we were all spoiled somewhat by the late Queen Mother, by Queen Elizabeth II, and by Prince Philip, all three of whom avoided serious illness well into their nineties.”
Meghan Markle faces ‘impossible situation'
Wednesday 26 June 2024 18:00 , Emma Guinness
The Duchess of Sussex reportedly faces an “impossible situation” with her estranged father, a royal expert has claimed.
This comes after Thomas Markle, 79, issued a plea to Meghan ahead of his 80th birthday to finally meet his two grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Royal expert Kinsey Schofield said on Heirs & Spares: “Can Meghan pick up the phone and say, ‘Dad, I want to talk to you but you can’t tell Samantha [her half-sister], you can’t tell Thomas Jr?
“Her brother has a regular YouTube channel where he talks about his sister, he impersonates his sister. It’s almost like she’s in an impossible situation because how could she access her father without jeopardising some of that privacy?”
Queen Camilla’s amusing response to little girl
Wednesday 26 June 2024 17:00 , Emma Guinness
Queen Camilla had the perfect response when a primary school pupil asked if she was the queen on a visit today.
“Are you the Queen?” a little girl asked.
This prompted the royal to smile and say: “That’s me.”
The visit to Christ Church School in Chelsea, south-west London, was designed to encourage the pupils to read and Camilla donated new books to their library.
Princess Anne receives ‘little treats’ from home at hospital
Wednesday 26 June 2024 15:49 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne has received a “few little treats from home” as she continues her recovery in hospital.
The Princess Royal, 73, was kicked by a horse as she walked around her Gloucestershire estate on Sunday evening.
She sustained what was described as a concussion and minor injuries.
Her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence told reporters she was “doing fine, slow but sure” and added that he had given her a “few little treats from home”.
Princess Anne’s husband gives health update
Wednesday 26 June 2024 14:51 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne’s husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence has given reporters a health update as she remains in hospital for a fourth day.
When asked about her potential release as he left the Bristol hospital today, he said: “She’ll be out when she’s ready.”
Laurence, who married the Princess Royal in 1992, admitted that she is “recovering slowly”.
Japanese emperor visits The Francis Crick Institute
Wednesday 26 June 2024 14:30 , Emma Guinness
The Japanese Emperor Naruhito has continued his three-day state visit today with a visit to the Francis Crick Institute.
He was pictured smiling as he was shown around the London-based medical research facility.
The head of state is set to visit the Royal College of Music this afternoon and attend a banquet at the Guildhall.
Princess Anne’s husband thanks well-wishers and hospital
Wednesday 26 June 2024 14:00 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne’s husband has thanked well-wishers and staff at the Bristol hospital where she remains this afternoon.
Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence said the princess is “recovering well” after she was kicked by a horse.
“We are both profoundly grateful to the medical team and hospital support staff for their expert care – and to the emergency services who were all so wonderful at the scene,” he said.
“We are both deeply touched by all the kind messages we have received from so many people near and far. It means a great deal.”
Princess Anne’s historic Canada trip cancelled
Wednesday 26 June 2024 13:56 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne was scheduled to fly out to Canada on 30 June to acknowledge the 100th anniversary of the National War Memorial in St John’s, Newfoundland.
The visit, which was scheduled to last two days, has now been cancelled after the royal was hospitalised on Sunday night after being kicked by a horse.
She remains in hospital this afternoon, but her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence said the princess is “recovering well”.
Princess Anne remains in hospital for a fourth day
Wednesday 26 June 2024 13:24 , Emma Guinness
The Princess Royal remains in the Bristol hospital she was admitted to on Sunday after being kicked by a horse, Buckingham Palace confirmed to the Independent.
Anne, 73, sustained a concussion and minor injuries in the incident, which took place in the evening as she walked around her Gloucestershire estate.
Brain and cognition expert Natalie Mackenzie yesterday told the Independent that the first 48 hours after a concussion is a critical time for monitoring.
“Generally, you would look to monitor symptoms for about 48 hours,” she said. “Concussion symptoms should resolve within two weeks but not require a hospital stay. But of course, they’re going to be cautious with a royal.”
Princess Anne the ‘hardest working royal'
Wednesday 26 June 2024 13:00 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne is reportedly the hardest-working member of the royal family and has attended a quarter of all engagements this year, a new report has found.
It comes as the Princess Royal, 73, recovers in hospital after being kicked by a horse on Sunday night.
The new analysis from the Daily Mail found that Anne attended an impressive 252 engagements in the first six months of 2024.
Prince Harry allegedly planning UK trip to repair family relationship
Wednesday 26 June 2024 12:00 , Emma Guinness
The Duke of Sussex is reportedly planning a trip to the UK to repair his seemingly frosty relationship with the royal family.
An insider claimed that Prince Harry was “upset and emotional” when he saw Kate Middleton at Trooping the Colour – her first public appearance of the year as she battles cancer.
“He can’t believe it’s come to this, and he’s now saying he’s going to fly over and force them to face him,” an insider told Closer magazine.
“He’s still a prince, after all; they’re still his family, and whether they like it or not, he’s refusing to just be cast aside.”
Meghan Markle’s new product a ‘big money spinner’, insider claims
Wednesday 26 June 2024 11:00 , Emma Guinness
Meghan Markle’s new lifestyle brand American Rivieria Orchard will reportedly sell rosé wine.
The Duchess of Sussex has already teased some products including jam and dog biscuits, but an insider has claimed that the latest reported offering is set to be a “big money spinner”.
This comes after the former actress and Prince Harry stepped down as working royals in 2020, citing a desire to lead a more independent life.
Meghan Markle ‘rejected’ by Taylor Swift, expert claims
Wednesday 26 June 2024 10:00 , Emma Guinness
A royal commentator has claimed that Meghan Markle was “rejected” by Taylor Swift.
The Duchess of Sussex allegedly reached out to the American superstar to appear on her now-defunct podcast, but she declined according to royal expert Kinsey Schofield.
Referring to the Prince of Wales’s recent selfie with the singer, she said: “I just love seeing him blissful, gleeful. This has been a really hard year for them.”
Harry and Meghan ‘desperately’ trying to reconnect with Kate Middleton
Wednesday 26 June 2024 09:00 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are “desperately” trying to reconnect with Kate Middleton, a source close to the royal family has claimed.
This comes as the princess made her first public appearance of the year at the king’s official birthday parade, Trooping the Colour, as she continues to battle cancer.
The source told OK! magazine that the couple, whose frosty relationship with the royal family has been highly publicised, “hope to trigger a truce.”
“Both Harry and Meghan have been following Kate’s recovery with huge interest, but, sadly, it’s had to be more from afar because their lines of communication with the palace and the Waleses, in particular, are very limited, to say the least,” they said.
“They have had enough information to know that people are excited about the idea of a comeback for Kate, and they’re both relieved and happy to hear that she’s on the mend and may soon be well enough to return to her duties.”
King Charles makes Pokémon joke to Japanese emperor
Wednesday 26 June 2024 08:43 , Emma Guinness
King Charles made a sweet reference to his grandchildren’s love of Pokémon to the Japanese emperor.
Reflecting on the pair’s longstanding friendship, he recalled the time they spent fly fishing during a speech at yesterday’s state banquet.
He said: “I am only sorry to report that I haven’t had any better luck with more recent attempts at fishing.
“The Pokémon phrase ‘gotta catch ‘em all’ may resonate with my grandchildren, but for me it is, perhaps, aspirational!”
Largest collection of Princess Diana’s belongings up for auction
Wednesday 26 June 2024 08:30 , Emma Guinness
A collection of Princess Diana’s belongings is set to go up for auction tomorrow.
Billed as the largest number of items ever sold belonging to the late princess, it includes gowns, accessories, and keepsakes.
The auction, which is in aid of Muscular Dystrophy UK, will be held at The Peninsula Beverly Hills on 27 June.
“One of her friends from school, [one of] her lifelong friends that Diana used to give her shoes, bags and dresses to when she finished with them, she came to us, and she said ‘I’d love to sell these items because I know that Diana would want these items to go to good causes’,” Martin Nolan, co-founder and executive director of Julien’s Auctions, said.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reportedly can’t visit Australia on world tour
Wednesday 26 June 2024 08:00 , Emma Guinness
Following the success of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s recent unofficial tour of Nigeria, reports emerged that a larger world tour is in the works.
However, there is one country which the couple reportedly cannot visit now that they are no longer working royals.
“In May, after Nigeria, and that was a successful faux royal tour for them, let’s face it, Harry made the comment they want to do more of this,” royal expert Louise Roberts told Sky News.
“[Harry and Meghan] are obsessed with privacy but a world tour is a direct contradiction.”
She then pointed out that King Charles and Queen Camilla have a trip to Australia planned for this October.
“They can’t go where Charles and Camilla will go – they can’t go to Australia,” she said.
Queen wears the King Charles III Family Order for first time
Wednesday 26 June 2024 07:38 , Andre Langlois
Family Orders badges are worn at formal evening occasions by female members of the Royal Family and personally bestowed by the sovereign as a sign of the importance of the wearer within the household.
Camilla stepped out wearing the diamond-encased miniature portrait of her husband topped with a tiny gold and enamel Tudor crown and suspended on a pale blue silk bow on her left shoulder for a Buckingham Palace ballroom banquet to honour the state visit of the Emperor of Japan.
The unveiling of the new King Charles III’s Family Order comes nearly two years after Charles became monarch.
Meghan Markle ‘isn’t going to be happy’ Prince William met Taylor Swift
Wednesday 26 June 2024 06:00 , Emma Guinness
Meghan Markle will reportedly not be “happy” that Prince William and two of his children recently met Taylor Swift.
The heir to the throne, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte all posed for a selfie with the American singer after attending the opening night of The Eras Tour in London.
“If there’s one thing that Meghan covets above all else, it’s celebrity attention, and the former actress probably isn’t going to be happy with Taylor Swift making time for William and his children,” claimed Sky News host Rita Panahi.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s popularity plummets
Wednesday 26 June 2024 04:00 , Emma Guinness
A new poll of the popularity levels of members of the royal family has shown that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have dramatically fallen out of favour with the public.
This comes after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped down as working royals in 2020.
In a recent YouGov poll, just 31 percent of the British public said they saw Harry in a favourable light and just 26 percent of respondents had a positive response to Meghan.
“It is the biggest plummet in popularity in history,” Royal expert Hilary Fordwich told the Express. “To have gone from the number one most popular royals after the Queen, Harry has now gone to just above Prince Andrew.”
Princess Anne’s 1976 concussion
Wednesday 26 June 2024 02:00 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne is currently recovering after she was kicked by a horse on her Gloucestershire estate on Sunday night.
It was later revealed that she had suffered a concussion and minor injuries.
But this is not the first time that the royal’s love of horses has seen her injured.
She also suffered a concussion while riding in her 1976 Olympic debut.
Reflecting on the experience at the equestrian event where she also suffered a cracked vertebra, she said her memory was “almost non-existent for that day.”
Prince Harry ‘refuses to be cast aside’, expert claims
Wednesday 26 June 2024 16:10 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry “refuses to be cast aside” amid his seemingly frosty relationship with the royal family.
The insider claims that he is now planning a trip to the UK to try and patch things up after he saw none of his immediate family on his most recent trip to the UK.
He has not seen his father, King Charles, since he announced his cancer diagnosis in February.
The insider told Closer magazine: “He can’t believe it’s come to this, and he’s now saying he’s going to fly over and force them to face him.
“He’s still a prince, after all; they’re still his family, and whether they like it or not, he’s refusing to just be cast aside.”
Princess Charlotte the biggest royal Taylor Swift fan
Wednesday 26 June 2024 00:00 , Emma Guinness
Prince William might have stolen the show with his dad dancing at Taylor Swift’s Wembley concert on Friday, but the biggest fan in the Wales family is reportedly Princess Charlotte.
The family attended the concert on the heir to the throne’s 42nd birthday, but the Princess of Wales and Prince Louis, who some speculated was too young for the event, were notably absent.
“Princess Charlotte is the huge Taylor Swift fan in the family,” a source told Entertainment Tonight.
“She has wanted to go to the concert for months, but with her mum being treated for cancer, this was a really special day to be able to celebrate her Papa’s birthday like this.”
Prince Harry ‘may explain’ Thomas Markle snub in future memoir
Tuesday 25 June 2024 22:00 , Emma Guinness
Thomas Markle has pleaded with his estranged daughter to let him meet his grandchildren ahead of his 80th birthday.
Now, a royal expert has claimed that Prince Harry “may explain” the couple’s ongoing estrangement from the 79-year-old in a future memoir.
Richard Fitzwilliams told GB News: “Before the engagement, it has never been explained why Harry has never met Thomas Markle.
“That is something that perhaps will be explained in a future memoir, but this is all very sad business.
“It’s not going to be resolved.”
He added: “As far as the wider royal drift is concerned, the Royal Family have other priorities at the moment, putting it mildly.”
Why today is critical in Princess Anne's recovery, according to concussion expert
Tuesday 25 June 2024 20:00 , Emma Guinness
An expert has explained why today is critical in Princess Anne’s recovery from a concussion sustained by a kick from a horse.
The Princess Royal, 73, has now spent two nights in hospital following the Sunday evening incident at her Gloucestershire estate.
Speaking exclusively to The Independent, brain and cognition expert Natalie Mackenzie explained that the first 48 hours after a concussion are a critical time for monitoring.
“Generally, you would look to monitor symptoms for about 48 hours,” she explained. “Concussion symptoms should resolve within two weeks but not require a hospital stay.
“But of course, they’re going to be cautious with a royal.”
Prince Harry denied hugs as a child – ‘Distance was essential'
Tuesday 25 June 2024 18:00 , Emma Guinness
Following Prince Harry’s increasingly frosty relations with the royal family, more claims are being resurfaced from his 2023 memoir Spare.
These include the revelation that he was denied hugs and other forms of physical intimacy as a child.
Harry wrote: “As a Royal, you were always taught to maintain a buffer zone between you and the rest of Creation. Even working a crowd you always kept a discreet distance between Yourself and Them.”
He added: “Family included distance as well.
“No matter how much you might love someone, you could never cross that chasm between, say, monarch and child. Or Heir and Spare. Physically, but also emotionally.”
The Duke of Sussex asserted that the formality was particularly prevalent among older generations of the family who “maintained a nearly zero-tolerance prohibition on all physical contact.”
Princess Anne ‘livid’ after being kicked by horse
Tuesday 25 June 2024 17:00 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne’s upcoming engagements for the week have been postponed after she was kicked by a horse on Sunday evening.
The Princess Royal, 73, has now spent two nights in hospital after the incident that Buckingham Palace said left her with a concussion and minor injuries.
Now, Queen Elizabeth’s former press secretary has said Anne, who is widely regarded to be one of the most hardworking royals, will be “livid” in the wake of the incident.
Ailsa Anderson-Cole told the Daily Mail: “She will be livid at not being able to fulfil her commitments... and loathes letting people down.”
Princess Anne and Kate Middleton miss Japanese state visit
Tuesday 25 June 2024 16:00 , Emma Guinness
The Japanese state visit to the UK is officially underway but two senior members of the royal family are notably absent.
While the Princess of Wales’s absence was expected in light of her ongoing cancer treatment, Princess Anne was forced to pull out of the event at the last minute after being kicked by a horse on her Gloucestershire estate on Sunday.
Princess Anne’s husband gives health update
Tuesday 25 June 2024 15:29 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne’s husband has given an update on her health after she spent a second night in hospital after being kicked by a horse.
Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence told reporters outside Southmead Hospital in Bristol: “She’s doing fine. Slow, but sure.”
Buckingham Palace announced the princess’s hospitalisation yesterday, revealing that she had suffered a concussion and minor injuries.
Horse charity reveals how to stop the animals from kicking
Tuesday 25 June 2024 15:25 , Emma Guinness
A horse charity has revealed how to minimise the risk of the animals kicking in light of Princess Anne’s injuries.
The Princess Royal, 73, is currently in hospital after being kicked by a horse on a walk on her Gloucestershire estate.
The Executive Director for Welfare at Bransby Horses told The Independent: “Horses are big animals and can weigh up to 650kg.
“Whilst they can be amazingly gentle, they do have the potential to cause serious injuries as they can be unpredictable in their nature – even those that we deal with every day.
“We wish HRH Princess Anne a speedy recovery from this accident.
“Sadly injuries relating to equines are common whether when riding, caring or being close to them and there are some basic tips which can help keep everyone safe.
“For the general public; do not make sudden loud noises or movements when in the vicinity of horses. Be aware that they can move fast and keep out of the kick zone to the back of the sides and behind animals. Keep a safe distance.
“Always ask the owner or carer for permission to approach or stroke a horse where they are being ridden or led.”
Horse owners are advised to wear “PPE for routine care.”
The charity added: “Here at Bransby Horses we ask everyone as a general rule who works with or with or near to wear hats and safety boots at all times and wear gloves when leading horses.
“For those who are riding horses, they also wear back protectors. Read the body language of your horse and think ahead to anticipate possible risks.”
Eyewitness reveals what happened to Princess Anne
Tuesday 25 June 2024 15:00 , Emma Guinness
An eyewitness has revealed what happened when Princess Anne was kicked by a hose on her Gloucestershire estate on Sunday evening.
The Princess Royal, 73, has now spent a second night in hospital after the incident which left her with a concussion and minor injuries.
A local man said: “I saw an air ambulance landing on her estate and I thought, ‘Oh my goodness, I hope it’s not Anne’. And then the police helicopter started circling about ten minutes later and I thought the worst.
“I thought something awful must have happened and I was worried a criminal might be on the loose, but the police helicopter was off pretty quickly.”
He added: “The air ambulance was on the ground for about 40 minutes I think - I’m not sure if it took her to hospital but didn’t look like it did as it flew off the other way. I really hope she’s going to be okay.”
Princess Anne visited in hospital by Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence
Tuesday 25 June 2024 14:00 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne has been visited in hospital this afternoon by her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.
The Princess Royal, 73, remains under observation after she sustained a concussion and minor injuries when she was kicked by a horse on Sunday night.
Buckingham Palace said in a statement: “The Princess Royal has sustained minor injuries and concussion following an incident on the Gatcombe Park estate yesterday evening.
“Her Royal Highness remains in Southmead Hospital, Bristol, as a precautionary measure for observation and is expected to make a full and swift 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.”
Empress Masako reportedly allergic to horses
Tuesday 25 June 2024 13:10 , Emma Guinness
The Empress Masako, who has just arrived in the UK for the Japanese state visit, wore a mask as she travelled in a carriage with Queen Camilla.
According to Sky News, this was because she is allergic to horses.
Charles and Camilla welcome the emperor and empress of Japan
Tuesday 25 June 2024 13:02 , Emma Guinness
Emperor Naruhito and his wife Empress Masako enjoyed a ceremonial welcome to the UK after being greeted by King Charles and Queen Camilla.
The heads of state have now retreated for a private lunch inside Buckingham Palace.
Japan’s Emperor said royals treat him ‘like family’
Tuesday 25 June 2024 13:00 , Emma Guinness
Emperor Naruhito of Japan has reflected on the time he has spent in the UK ahead of his state visit beginning today.
The emperor and his wife Empress Masako previously studied at Oxford University.
Reflecting on being shown around by the royals in the 1980s, he said: “I have very fond memories of the Queen driving a car and inviting me to a barbecue and Prince Philip showing me around by driving a carriage himself.”
As reported by the Telegraph, he added: “I was welcomed with warmth as if I were their family member.”
In pictures: Charles and Camilla arrive at Horse Guards Parade
Tuesday 25 June 2024 12:25 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain
Tuesday 25 June 2024 12:00 , Emma Guinness
London is ready to welcome the emperor and empress of Japan on what will be King Charles’s first state visit since his cancer diagnosis.
Emperor Naruhito and his wife Empress Masako will be met at their London hotel and escorted to Horse Guard’s Parade by none other than Prince William.
They are set to enjoy a state banquet later this evening.
Princess Anne will notably be absent following her hospitalisation after being kicked by a horse on Sunday.
Buckingham Palace prepares for Japanese state visit
Tuesday 25 June 2024 11:44 , Emma Guinness
The Mall has been adorned with Japanese flags to welcome Emperor Naruhito and his wife Empress Masako on their state visit, which begins today.
The couple will be greeted by Prince William at their hotel before being escorted to Horse Guards Parade.
Princess Royal’s engagements postponed for the next week
Tuesday 25 June 2024 11:00 , Emma Guinness
Buckingham Palace announced yesterday that Princess Anne’s engagements for the week will be postponed after a horse kicked her on Sunday evening.
She has now spent a second night in hospital following the incident, which is the latest health woe to strike the family this year.
A Palace spokesman said: “On doctors’ advice, Her Royal Highness’s engagements for the week ahead will be postponed. Her Royal Highness sends her apologies to any who may be inconvenienced or disappointed as a result.
“The Japanese State Visit will go ahead as planned, though sadly Her Royal Highness will be unable to attend the State banquet tomorrow.”
Princess Anne spends a second night in hospital
Tuesday 25 June 2024 10:00 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne has spent a second night in hospital after being kicked by a horse on her Gatcombe Park estate.
News of the Sunday night incident was broken by Buckingham Palace yesterday in a statement where they said the Princess Royal, 73, is expected to make a full and swift recovery.
She is reported to have suffered a concussion and minor injuries and is understood to be awake in hospital.
Her medical team confirmed to the media that her injuries were consistent with being kicked by a horse’s head or legs.
An air ambulance was dispatched to her Gloucestershire estate at the time of the incident, as well as other emergency services, and she was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital.
It is believed that she was kicked while walking on the estate.
No one else is reported to have been injured.
Prince Charles to undertake series of engagements in Scotland
Tuesday 25 June 2024 09:00 , Emma Guinness
King Charles will undertake a series of engagements in Scotland on his upcoming annual visit, Buckingham Palace has announced.
While the number of engagements is reduced because of the upcoming General Election, several will still take place.
They include a royal garden party in Edinburgh on the 2nd and 3rd of July.
The King and Queen Consort will also mark the 900th anniversary of the capital’s establishment in the 12th century at a ceremony.
It is an annual tradition for the reigning Monarch to spend a week at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh – a period known as Holyrood Week or Royal Week in Scotland.
Princess Anne’s injuries ‘not a minor matter’, expert claims
Tuesday 25 June 2024 08:30 , Emma Guinness
Following yesterday’s news that Princess Anne has been hospitalised after being kicked by a horse, a royal expert has said her injuries are “not a minor matter”.
The Princess Royal, 73, suffered a concussion and minor injuries, with later reports claiming that she experienced temporary memory loss as a result of the Sunday night incident on her Gatcombe Park estate.
Now, royal expert Michael Cole has implied that Buckingham Palace could be downplaying her injuries and said the incident “could be serious” at Anne’s age.
The princess has spent a second night in a Bristol hopsital following the incident.
Mr Cole told the Metro: “The fact the Princess Royal was detained in hospital overnight indicates that it’s not a minor matter.
“With concussion, it can be just a bang on the head and you see stars for a few minutes – but it can be something more serious.
“They’re not going to be taking any chances and they’re keeping her in. I haven’t heard that she’s been released from the hospital in Bristol and maybe it will be an extended stay.”
He added: “She’s probably in the best place at this time for a proper assessment because it’s no small thing to have a concussion at any age, but at the age of 73, it could be serious.”
‘Fear’ is reportedly stopping Prince Harry from visiting the UK
Tuesday 25 June 2024 08:00 , Emma Guinness
Following Prince Harry’s decision to move to California in 2020 after stepping down as a working royal, he has been visiting the UK less and less.
Now one royal expert has weighed in on his increasingly sparse visits and said that they are the result of a core safety fear.
Tom Quinn explained that this fear is so strong that Harry adopted a disguise when he was last in the country to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games.
He told the Mirror: “Harry is completely obsessed with the idea that any visit to the UK is fraught with security difficulties – hence his continued legal action to challenge the UK government’s decision not to fund his security.
“Harry hates the idea of hotels – last time he stayed in a hotel on a visit to the UK he had to leave and arrive virtually in disguise. The problems are even bigger if he plans to stay with friends as he’s convinced, he is always being watched by the media and that they will find out where he’s staying.”
Duke and Duchess of Westminister top Tatler social power index
Tuesday 25 June 2024 07:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
The Duke and Duchess of Westminster have grabbed the top spot on Tatler’s power list defeating King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
Tatler magazine described the list as “an annual report into where the real power lies in British society”.
Thousands of people lined the streets of Chester for the wedding of Duke and Duchess in June where the Prince of Wales acted as an usher.
The crowd cheered as billionaire aristocrat Hugh Grosvenor, 33, and his new bride Olivia Henson, 31, kissed outside after the ceremony.
Princess Anne’s recovery continues at the hospital
Tuesday 25 June 2024 07:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Princess Anne is thought to have spent a second night in hospital after suffering minor injuries to her head and concussion when it is believed she was kicked by a horse on her Gatcombe Park estate.
Anne, a skilled horsewoman who competed in the 1976 Montreal Olympics, was walking on her Gloucestershire estate on Sunday evening when she was injured.
It is understood the princess was walking within the protected perimeter of Gatcombe Park estate when the incident occurred, and no other individual is believed to have been involved.
Her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, who was on the estate at the time, went with her to hospital.
A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: “Her Royal Highness is recovering well, is in a comfortable condition and is being kept in hospital as a precautionary measure for further observation.”
The spokesperson added: “Her Royal Highness is receiving appropriate expert care. No further details are being shared at this stage.
“Her Royal Highness will remain in Southmead Hospital unless or until her medical team advise otherwise.”
Princess Royal: What is concussion and how is it treated?
Tuesday 25 June 2024 06:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that affects how the brain functions.
The effects of concussion are usually short-term and can include headaches and trouble with concentration, memory, balance, mood and sleep.
While some concussions cause the person to lose consciousness, most do not. Most people make a full recovery.
More here.
Princess Royal: What is concussion and how is it treated?
Thomas Markle believes grandchildren are being denied their ‘birthright’
Tuesday 25 June 2024 06:00 , Emma Guinness
Thomas Markle has expressed his sadness that Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet are being denied their “birthright” after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped down as working royals.
The 79-year-old, who has never met his grandchildren, also expressed his sadness that they do not have a relationship with their royal cousins.
“It struck me as very sad that Meghan and Harry’s kids are being denied the right to know their cousins, who look like fantastic children,” Thomas told the Daily Mail.
He added: “I feel sad that Lilibet and Archie don’t have the chance to get to know their cousins and take part in things like Trooping The Colour, which is their birthright.
“They are getting to the age where they will start asking questions, as all kids do.
‘At some stage, it’s inevitable that they will ask their parents why they have cut them off from both sides of the family?”
Princess Anne suffered temporary memory loss after injury - report
Tuesday 25 June 2024 05:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Princess Anne suffered memory loss after sustaining head injuries after being kicked by a horse, according to reports.
The Princess Royal, 73, is in hospital after suffering minor injuries to her head and a concussion on Sunday after the incident at her Gatcombe Park estate.
Emergency services were despatched to the estate and, after medical care at the scene, the princess was transferred to Southmead Hospital in Bristol for appropriate tests, treatment and observation.
Her memory loss is thought likely to be temporary, The Telegraph reported.
Princess Anne suffered previous concussion from horse
Tuesday 25 June 2024 05:00 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Princess Anne is being treated for a concussion after it is believed a horse kicked her within the grounds of her Gloucestershire estate on Sunday evening - but it is not the first time she has been injured in such an incident.
The royals are known for their love of sport, including Anne, who nearly five decades ago became the first in the family to compete in an equestrian event at the Olympics.
Anne rode the late Queen’s horse Goodwill in the equestrian three-day event at the 1976 Montreal games in Canada.
Her debut did not, however, go to plan. Goodwill failed to make one of the jumps on the course and fell, bringing Anne down too.
Matt Mathers reports.
Princess Anne suffered previous concussion from horse while competing in the Olympics
Why horses kick and how to spot the warning signs
Tuesday 25 June 2024 04:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar
Horses can react by kicking if they “feel threatened, scared or are in pain”, an equine expert has said.
Equine behaviourist Chloe Campbell said warning signs include “pinned ears, tense facial muscles, swishing tails or shifting weight”.
Princess Anne is in hospital after suffering injuries to her head and concussion when it is believed she was kicked by a horse on her Gatcombe Park estate.
Ms Campbell told the PA news agency: “As an equine behaviourist, my thoughts are with the princess and her family during this difficult time.
“This incident is an important reminder of the importance of understanding equine behaviour and ensuring the horse is in a suitable environment.”
More here.
Why horses kick and how to spot the warning signs
Thomas Markle disputes claim Meghan ‘achieved everything on her own’
Tuesday 25 June 2024 04:00 , Emma Guinness
Meghan Markle’s father has disputed her claim that she “achieved everything on her own” when it came to her acting career.
The Duchess of Sussex, 42, rose to fame on Suits before giving up her career to marry Prince Harry, although there has been intense speculation about whether she will return to acting now that she is no longer a working royal.
“She makes out she achieved everything on her own, but one of the directors of General Hospital, Owen Renfroe, gave her one line to read which helped her to get an actor’s union card,” Thomas Markle, 79, told the Daily Mail.
“That was what started her career.”
Harry and Meghan slammed for plans to send children to ‘prestigious’ private school
Tuesday 25 June 2024 02:00 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have come under fire for their alleged plans to send Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet to a “prestigious” private school.
Royal commentator Lee Cohen said this undermines their apparent commitment to progressive causes.
“Their supposed commitment to progressive causes is nothing but a facade. If they’re willing to indulge in this epitome of elitism, there is no advocating for equality,” he told GB News.
Thomas Markle says there was ‘no bad blood’ in family until Meghan met Harry
Tuesday 25 June 2024 00:00 , Emma Guinness
Thomas Markle has claimed that there was “no bad blood” between him and his daughter until she got into a relationship with Prince Harry.
Markle, 79, who has been estranged from Meghan since 2018, expressed his hope to meet his two grandchildren ahead of his 80th birthday.
Reflecting on his relationship with his daughter in the Daily Mail, he said: “[Doria and I] had such an amicable divorce that after I retired to Mexico and had to go to LA, I would stay with Doria and she’d cook me dinner.
“I always provided well for Meghan and Doria and was happy to do so. There was never any bad blood between us until Meghan met Harry.”
The pair’s relationship fell apart completely following a staged paparazzi photoshoot, but Thomas has expressed a desire to reconcile.
Prince Harry and Prince William’s relationship ‘gone for good'
Monday 24 June 2024 22:00 , Emma Guinness
Prince Harry and Prince William’s once friendly relationship is “gone for good”, an insider has claimed.
This comes amid reports that the Duke of Sussex and Meghan Markle are “running out of time” to reconcile with the royals.
“Whatever might happen in the future, the trust that was implicit in his relationship with Harry is gone for good,” the insider told the Daily Mail.
“Even if it is possible that some kind of managed reconciliation could be achieved, it will be never anything more than superficial.”
The brothers’ relationship has grown increasingly frosty since Prince Harry stepped down as a working royal in 2020 and subsequently told all about his time in the family to Oprah Winfrey in 2021 and again in his 2023 memoir Spare.
Air ambulance sent to Princess Anne’s estate
Monday 24 June 2024 20:00 , Emma Guinness
Locals have reported that an air ambulance was sent to Princess Anne’s Gloucestershire estate after she was kicked by a horse yesterday evening.
It is believed that while the vehicle was dispatched to the Gatcombe Park estate just after 9 pm, it was not used by the Princess Royal.
As reported by the Telegraph, a local man said: “I saw an air ambulance landing on her estate and I thought ‘oh my goodness, I hope it’s not Anne’.
“And then the police helicopter started circling about ten minutes later and I thought the worst. I thought something awful must have happened and I was worried a criminal might be on the loose, but the police helicopter was off pretty quickly.”
While the princess is currently in hospital, she is expected to make a full and swift recovery after sustaining a concussion and minor injuries.
The local man added: “The air ambulance was on the ground for about 40 minutes I think - I’m not sure if it took her to hospital but didn’t look like it did as it flew off the other way.
“I really hope she’s going to be okay.”
Princess Anne’s reaction to gunman’s kidnapping
Monday 24 June 2024 18:00 , Emma Guinness
Following the news that Princess Anne has been hospitalised with minor injuries, royal commentators have been reflecting on her strength of character.
This was brilliantly displayed back in 1974 when a gunman attempted to kidnap her for ransom from her car on the Mall outside Buckingham Palace.
When he asked the princess, then 23, to get out of her Austin Princess, she simply replied: “Not bloody likely.”
Thomas Markle reaches out to King Charles
Monday 24 June 2024 17:00 , Emma Guinness
Meghan Markle’s father has reached out to King Charles amid his ongoing estrangement from his daughter.
The pair have been on sour terms since Meghan’s 2018 wedding to Prince Harry, when Thomas Markle, now 79, posed for staged paparazzi photographs.
He has now said via a new interview that he would “love” to speak to the Monarch, citing their shared health concerns and “unanswered questions.”
“I would love to speak to him because I am sure he has as many unanswered questions as I do,” he told the Daily Mail.
“Neither of us deserves the treatment we’ve received.
“He is going through cancer treatment and I’m not in the best of health.”
Equine behaviourist reveals why horses kick – and the warning signs
Monday 24 June 2024 16:43 , Emma Guinness
Following the news that Princess Anne has been hospitalised after being kicked by a horse, an equine behaviourist has explained why it can happen.
Chloe Campbell said that horses behave in this way when they “feel threatened, scared or are in pain.”
Those who spend time around the animals are advised to look out for warning signs including “pinned ears, tense facial muscles, swishing tails or shifting weight”.
Ms Campbell told the PA news agency: “As an equine behaviourist, my thoughts are with the princess and her family during this difficult time.
“This incident is an important reminder of the importance of understanding equine behaviour and ensuring the horse is in a suitable environment.”
She added: “Horses are naturally gentle animals and a prey species, but they can react unpredictably if they feel threatened, scared or are in pain.
“To the average eye, this may seem unpredictable, although to the trained eye, overt behaviours such as kicking can usually be predicted with precursor behaviours, such as tail swishing.”
The Princess Royal is expected to make a full and swift recovery after sustaining minor injuries and a concussion.
Princess Anne being treated at Bristol NHS hospital
Monday 24 June 2024 16:00 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne is being treated at an NHS hospital in Bristol after being kicked by a horse at her Gloucestershire estate yesterday evening.
The Princess Royal, 73, has been admitted to Southmead Hospital, which is part of the North Bristol NHS Trust.
She is reported to have sustained a concussion and other minor injuries as a result of the incident, but the hospital specialises in neuroscience.
The princess is expected to make a full recovery and Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles is being “closely informed” about her progress.
Princess Anne receives good wishes amid hospitalisation
Monday 24 June 2024 15:00 , Emma Guinness
Princess Anne is receiving countless well wishes after it emerged this afternoon that she has been hospitalised after being kicked by a horse.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “Everyone in the country is immensely fond of Her Royal Highness.
“We’re all sending her our best wishes for a swift recovery.”
These sentiments were echoed by the Labour leader Keir Starmer, who said: “Wishing Her Royal Highness a speedy recovery and sending my best wishes on behalf of all of us at the Labour Party.”
