Princess Anne’s recent recovery from an accident has only added to her growing popularity. A recent anecdote shared on a podcast revealing her delight at not looking like a princess has captured the hearts of fans, showcasing her down-to-earth charm.
Princess Anne was happy when she was told she didn’t look like a princess. Her witty comeback revealed on a podcast, showcased her down-to-earth personality.
A photo of Princess Anne engaging with children dated November 2021 | Source: Instagram/theroyalfamily/
A few years ago, Princess Anne was caught off guard by a little girl’s candid comment, yet her reaction was anything but typical. When the 73-year-old royal was told she didn’t look like a princess, she delivered a witty and memorable comeback.
A photo showcasing Princess Anne’s dedication in supporting charity organizations dated November 2021 | Source: Instagram/theroyalfamily
During an episode of “The Royals with Roya and Kate” podcast, one of the hosts recounted the incident, which took place at an event for young riders and children. The host, after speaking with a senior member of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), a charity that Princess Anne passionately supports, shared the charming encounter.
At the event, Princess Anne mingled with various children, each with different disabilities. When one particular girl was introduced to her, she innocently remarked, “You don’t look like a princess.” The princess’s response? A brilliantly disarming, “Thank goodness for that, I’m so pleased to hear that.”
This anecdote surfaced shortly after Princess Anne resumed her royal duties following a hospitalization. The princess, an avid equestrian, had suffered a concussion following a horse-related accident at her home.
As Princess Anne continues her recovery, she has shared more about her condition as support pours in from the Royal Family. At a recent RDA event in Gloucestershire, Anne candidly admitted she couldn’t remember anything about the incident that occurred on June 23.
Addressing her presence at the event, RDA UK chair Ms. Vega Lozano expressed that it was a huge honor for the princess to attend the RDA as her first event since the accident. Michael Bishop, Chief Executive of the RDA, added that Anne holds a very special place in their hearts and expressed gratitude for her unwavering support.
Princess Anne at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships in Gloucester, England on July 12, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
While Princess Anne’s first public appearance after leaving the hospital excited many, it also caused quite a commotion online. Eagle-eyed social media users expressed concerns over the visible injury on the princess’ face after her accident.
Fan comment about Princess Anne, posted on July 13, 2024 | Source: Facebook/9 News
Princess Anne sported a classic ensemble that was perfect for the event’s occasion. She wore an olive green two-piece, tweed suit. She paired her look with navy wool gloves, a matching hat, a colorful silk scarf, and black heel boots. The princess also carried a dark blue bag.
Princess Anne at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships in Gloucester, England on July 12, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Several pictures show the British senior royal making her way through the event, greeting and conversing with fellow attendees. The official Instagram account of the royal family shared a carousel of images spotlighting Princess Anne and her endeavors at the event.
Princess Anne engaging with RDA participants and volunteers at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships, posted on July 13, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theroyalfamily
“At the Championships, the biggest equestrian event of its kind for disabled competitors, The Princess presented awards and met some of this year’s winners. 🎉 This year marks the 55th anniversary of the RDA!” penned the account in their caption.
Princess Anne arriving at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships, posted on July 13, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theroyalfamily
While Princess Anne certainly looked lively in the photos that were posted online, upon a closer review of some, one can easily notice the dark bruise underneath her left eye, on her left cheek.
Princess Anne at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships in Gloucester, England on July 12, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
The bruise comes from the head injury she suffered a couple of weeks ago, which led to a five-night stay in Southmead Hospital in Bristol.
Reports state that the exact circumstances of the accident remain unclear. However, what is known is that the princess sustained a minor head injury and concussion while taking a stroll on her Gatcombe Park estate in Gloucestershire.
Princess Anne seen horse riding in the grounds of Windsor Castle in Windsor, England on April 22, 2006 | Source: Getty Images
She was said to have been kicked by a horse and suffered temporary memory loss as a result. People who have seen the new photos of Princess Anne at the equestrian event have expressed worry for her.
Users immediately noticed the bruise on her face, with one writing, “Princess Anne returned to work & still had faint bruising on her face,” alongside two side-by-side pictures of the royal. In response, another pointed out, “That’s more than faint!”
Princess Anne at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships in Gloucester, England on July 12, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
However, amid the concern, some people were simply happy to see the princess back at work again and thought she looked well. “Thank God she’s healing and looking fabulous, I will add. ❤️,” praised a fan. Another gushed, “❤️ pleasure to see.”
Helena Vega Lozano and Princess Anne at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships in Gloucester, England on July 12, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
More details shared include the fact that the event was cut from two hours to one to account for Princess Anne’s ongoing recovery. Additionally, the princess showed strength and endurance by opting to stand in many instances as opposed to taking a seat on one of the many chairs there.
Princess Anne engaging with RDA participants and volunteers at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships, posted on July 13, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theroyalfamily
As a long-time associate of the RDA, having become the organization’s first patron in November 1971 and president in 1986, Princess Anne was always scheduled to attend the event.
Princess Anne engaging with RDA participants and volunteers at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships, posted on July 13, 2024 | Source: Instagram/theroyalfamily
An attendee named Avril Nicholl, who accepted one of the awards on behalf of an autistic rider, shared how she, along with other people, were given instructions not to ask Princess Anne about her injury. However, Avril mentioned, “I couldn’t let it go by without saying, ‘I’m so happy you could come.’ She said, ‘It is so kind of you to say that.'”
Reportedly, Princess Anne was discharged from Southmead Hospital early Friday morning, June 28, where she exited without being seen. It was also confirmed that she returned to her peaceful country home at Gatcombe Park near Minchinhampton.
Even as Princess Anne recovers, her deep love for horses and dedication to charity can’t go unnoticed. Some even wonder if this could have been her calling in another life. In a past interview, when asked what profession she would choose in another life, Anne admitted she had no idea.
Princess Anne riding her horse Goodwill during the Badminton Horse Trials in Gloucestershire, England on April 15, 1978 | Source: Getty Images
She then remarked that it was a bit too late to worry about such things. Reflecting on her life, she noted the advantage of having experienced a broad spectrum of interests and not being tied to a specific field, which she sees as a fortunate aspect of her life.