Princess Anne shares her deep sadness in her first public message since being released from hospital

Princess Anne has shared her first message since being released from hospital where she was treated for minor head injuries and a concussion.

The 73-year-old princess, who is currently recovering at her Gatcombe Park home, was due to attend a commemorative ceremony in Canada marking the centenary of the Newfoundland National War Memorial.

The Governor General of Canada shared a message on her behalf that read: “It is with deep regret that I cannot be with you today as you commemorate the courageous efforts and sacrifices of the members of the Newfoundland Regiment who went into battle on the first day of the Somme.”

He continued: “I have fond memories of joining you in 2016, on the 99th occasion that the people of this island commemorated the Battle of Beaumont Hamel, and I am deeply saddened that I will not be able to join you again, and I extend my warmest wishes to you on this special day of remembrance.”

GOOD MORNING! The late Queen’s daughter is believed to have been walking around her Gatcombe estate when the incident occurred, which resulted in the Princess Royal suffering minor head injuries and concussion.

Although the exact cause of her injuries has not been confirmed, it is understood that her medical team says the princess’s injuries are consistent with a potential impact from a horse’s head or legs.

She spent four days in hospital in Bristol, where she was monitored following her concussion, before returning to Gatcombe Park on Friday to recover. The royal will resume public duties when her doctors advise it is safe and comfortable for her to do so.

As Anne was discharged from hospital, her husband, Vice Admiral Tim Laurence, said in a statement: “I would like to extend my warmest thanks to the entire team at Southmead Hospital for their care, expertise and kindness during my wife’s short stay.”

Princess Anne’s passion for horses

Princess Anne is a keen equestrian! She was the first member of the British royal family to compete in the Olympic Games, in 1976 in Montreal, and also won a gold medal at the European Eventing Championships in 1971 and two silver medals in 1975.

His daughter Zara – who has previously ridden for Great Britain – spoke about the family’s obsession with horses in a 2023 interview.

“Our horses are part of our family,” she told People. “There’s always talk about performances and things like that,” adding, “She has horses in her life and she does a little bit of breeding as well.”