Princess Anne has been discharged from Southmead Hospital in Bristol after a five-day stay following a horse-related incident that resulted in minor head injuries and a concussion. The 73-year-old Princess Royal, who is King Charles III’s only sister, was struck by a horse on the grounds of her Gatcombe Park estate last weekend. The impact led to a concussion and subsequent memory loss.
Anne returned home on Friday morning and is expected to remain at her estate for further rest and recuperation. Her husband, Sir Tim Laurence, expressed gratitude to the hospital staff, stating, “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 incident occurred while Anne was walking within the protected perimeter of her estate, which hosts equestrian events. Emergency services, including an air ambulance, attended to her on the scene before she was transported to the hospital for tests, treatment, and observation. Her injuries were consistent with an impact from a horse’s head or legs.
Anne’s daughter, Zara Tindall, and son, Peter Phillips, were present on the estate at the time of the incident. Other senior members of the royal family were notified of her injuries on Sunday night. King Charles III, although not visiting in person, was kept closely informed of her progress and sent his “fondest love and well wishes” for a speedy recovery.
The Princess Royal, known for her equestrian skills, has a history of horse-related incidents. In 1976, while representing Great Britain at the Montreal Olympic Games, she suffered a bad jump that led to a fall and subsequent memory loss for that day. Earlier this month, she appeared on horseback during King Charles’ Trooping the Colour ceremony, although she nearly lost control of her horse at one point.
Due to her recent injuries, Anne has canceled all her official duties for the week, including a state visit and a trip to Canada. Her spokesperson stated, “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.”
Former royal butler Grant Harrold mentioned that Anne could be absent from royal duties for weeks, which would have a significant impact on her. Recovery from a concussion varies depending on the individual and the nature of the incident. Anne will receive rehabilitation support at home and will follow standard concussion protocols. She will return to public duties only when her medical team deems it safe and comfortable for her to do so.
Sir Tim Laurence, who visited Anne in the hospital multiple times, mentioned that she was “doing fine, slow but sure” and had taken her a “few little treats from home.” Buckingham Palace had earlier stated that Anne was in the hospital “as a precautionary measure for observation” and was expected to make a full and swift recovery.
Anne’s reputation as the hardest-working royal is well-known. She has often stepped in to represent King Charles during his public engagements, especially during his cancer treatment. Her recent accident, however, forced her to withdraw from a state banquet for visiting Japanese Emperor Naruhito and cancel her upcoming trip to Canada.
The Princess Royal’s medical team has indicated that her injuries are consistent with a potential impact from a horse’s head or legs. Few details about the incident are known, and it is understood that Anne was unable to remember precise details due to the concussion. Despite the ordeal, Anne is expected to make a full recovery and will return to her public-facing engagements once her medical team gives the go-ahead.
Source: Getty Images, SWNS, Emma Trimble, MEGA, REUTERS, Jonathan Brady
