The horse incident that caused Princess Anne to suffer visible injuries “could have been a lot worse”, royal expert Charles Rae has told GB News.
Anne returned to public engagements on Friday after spending five nights in hospital after she was believed to have been struck by a horse while out walking on June 23.
The 73-year-old was spotted as she visited the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships at Hartpury University and Hartpury College in Gloucestershire.
It is understood that the visit on Friday was the first step in a phased return to public duties as she continues her recovery.
Princess Anne's bruises were noticeable as she returned to public duties
PA
The bruises on Anne’s face were noticeable, and according to Rae, show that the incident could have had devastating consequences.
“It was nice to see Anne out and about, but with a horrifically bruised face”, he said.
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Charles Rae spoke to Dawn Neesom on GB News
GB NEWS
“That must have been some injury. I’m sure Anne is looking after the poor animal.
“When you look at some of the pictures this morning, you could actually see the bruise, so this was a bit more than just a thump.
“The fact that she lost her memory for a time shows how dangerous it was.
“It could have been much worse.”
Charles Rae says Anne's injuries could have been worse
GB NEWS
The Prince and Princess of Wales sent a supportive message to the Princess Royal as she made her return to public duties.
William and Kate retweeted a post on X by the official royal family account of photos of Anne smiling at the event, adding “Super trooper! So great to see you back so soon! W & C x” – showing it is a personal message from the couple.
Since the incident last month, the princess has been recovering at her Gatcombe Park home in Gloucestershire and has been following standard concussion protocols.
Anne’s medical team said her head injuries were consistent with a potential impact from a horse’s head or legs but her concussion has meant precise details of how the incident came about are not clear.
An air ambulance was scrambled to take the princess to hospital but in the end she travelled by road after being treated by an emergency crew on site.
She was treated at Southmead Hospital in Bristol for minor head injuries and concussion.