Princess Anne breaks silence after being ‘kicked in the head by a horse’ and hospitalised…

July 1, 2024, 6:53 p.m.

Princess Anne has spoken after being released from hospital after being treated for injuries sustained from a horse.

The Princess Royal, who remained at Bristol’s Southmead Hospital for around five days after being kicked in the head by a horse, said she regretted not being able to attend World War I commemorations in Canada.

Anne has been forced to cancel several engagements over the past week following her injury and hospital stay.

She said: “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.

“I have fond memories of being with you in 2016, during the 99th commemoration of the Battle of Beaumont-Hamel by the people of this island. 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 commemoration.”

Learn more: Princess Anne leaves hospital after being treated for concussion after being injured by horse

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The Newfoundland Regiment was virtually wiped out at the disastrous Battle of Beaumont Hamel on the first day of the Battle of the Somme, with more than 700 killed or wounded in 800 engagements.

Anne suffered minor head injuries and was kept in hospital for observation for a few days.

It is unclear how much time the princess will spend recovering, but she is receiving rehabilitation support at home while following standard concussion protocols.

Anne, 73, was walking around her estate in Gatcombe Park, Gloucestershire, when she was allegedly kicked by the horse and suffered a concussion and minor head injuries.

The injuries were consistent with a blow to the head or legs of a horse. The Princess Royal was treated at the estate before being taken to hospital.

Sir Tim, Anne’s daughter Zara Tindall and her son Mr Peter Phillips were on the estate at the time. Sir Tim went with Anne to the hospital.