Princess Anne reportedly ‘recovering well’ after horse incident

Princess Anne is “recovering well” after being hospitalized following an accident involving a horse, according to a statement from her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, on Tuesday, June 25.

“She’s doing fine — slow but sure,” Laurence, 69, informed reporters outside Southmead Hospital in Bristol. Anne, 73, was airlifted there on Sunday, June 23, after sustaining head injuries at Gatcombe Park.

Laurence confirmed that Anne is “recovering well” after The Telegraph reported on Tuesday that the royal is experiencing memory loss, believed to be due to a concussion.

The specific circumstances of the incident have not been disclosed publicly, but Buckingham Palace stated that Anne was hospitalized “as a precautionary measure for observation and is expected to make a full and swift recovery.”

Expressing gratitude for the care and support received, Laurence added, “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. 

“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.”

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson also provided an update on Monday, June 24, noting, “[Anne] is recovering well, is in a comfortable condition and is being kept in hospital as a precautionary measure for further observation.”

Anne, an avid horseback rider like her late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, competed for Team Great Britain at the 1976 Olympics. She recently participated in the parade at Trooping the Colour on June 15, alongside her nephew Prince William and brother Prince Edward.

Due to the accident, Anne had to cancel scheduled events, including the state visit of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan on Tuesday and a visit to Canada. “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,” stated a Buckingham Palace spokesperson, as reported by People. “The Japanese state visit will go ahead as planned, though sadly Her Royal Highness will be unable to attend the state banquet tomorrow.”