Princess Anne makes first statement after hospitalization

The Princess Royal was due to travel to Canada this week to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Newfoundland National War Memorial, but instead sent a personal message expressing regret at not being able to attend the transatlantic engagement.

“It is with deep regret that I am unable to be with you today as you commemorate the courageous efforts and sacrifices of the members of the Newfoundland Regiment who fought on the first day of the Somme,” Anne said in a statement relayed by Mary Simon, the Governor General of Canada, on Monday.

“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,” the royal said, before concluding with her “best wishes for this special day of remembrance.”

Buckingham Palace released a statement on Monday saying the 73-year-old had “suffered minor injuries and concussion following an incident in the Gatcombe Park grounds last night”.

The palace assured the public that she had been hospitalized “as a precautionary measure” and was expected to “make a full and speedy recovery.”

No specific timetable has been announced as to when the princess will resume her royal duties.