Lady Gabriella Kingston joins King Charles in Royal Ascot procession after husband’s death

Lady Gabriella Kingston made a poignant appearance on the first day of Royal Ascot, joining the royal carriage procession following the tragic death of her husband, Thomas Kingston, earlier this year.

King Charles and Queen Camilla led the traditional procession into the Berkshire racecourse, with Lady Gabriella travelling in a separate carriage alongside Princess Anne and Peter Phillips.

Dressed in a beautiful floral dress and a pale pink hat, Lady Gabriella's presence was her second public appearance since her husband's passing. Her inclusion in the prestigious procession is seen as a significant gesture of support from the royal family. Just days earlier, she was spotted at Trooping the Colour, her first public outing since the tragedy.

King Charles and Queen Camilla, who wore cobalt blue, initiated the Royal Ascot festivities with the Duke and Duchess of Wellington joining them in their carriage. The royal couple and their relatives took their seats in the royal box to enjoy a day of thrilling racing. King Charles expressed his delight, officially starting the annual race meeting.

As part of the ongoing tradition, Charles and Camilla hope to add to their tally of Royal Ascot winners, following in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth II. They have entered a string of horses for the races over the next five days.

Royal Ascot, established by Queen Anne in 1711, continues to be a major social and sporting event. Spectators, dressed in elegant hats, summer dresses, and smart suits, will cheer on the competitors over the next several days, maintaining the event's status as a highlight of the British social calendar.