Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, conducted a significant visit to The King's Royal Hussars (KRH) at the Salisbury Plain Training Area on Monday, fulfilling her duties as Senior Colonel of the Household Division. The 75-year-old royal, appointed to this key ceremonial position by her brother King Charles in 2023, demonstrated her unwavering commitment during a two-hour engagement with military personnel.
Engagement with Troops and Training Exercises
During her time at the training grounds, Princess Anne actively participated in discussions with soldiers regarding their intensive four-week training programme. She immersed herself in practical exercises involving tanks, infantry operations, and drone technology, showcasing her hands-on approach to the role. The Princess Royal also examined specialist equipment displays used by the KRH and received detailed briefings on the Cyber Electro Magnetic Activity (CEMA) capability currently being trialed across the Field Army.
Longstanding Association with the Regiment
Dressed appropriately in camouflage uniform and sunglasses, Princess Anne appeared in excellent spirits as she received updates on the KRH's Iron Cyclone exercises since her previous visit in 2024. Her connection with the regiment spans over five decades, beginning when she first became Colonel-in-Chief upon the regiment's formation in 1969. This enduring relationship highlights her deep-rooted dedication to military affairs and ceremonial responsibilities.
Lieutenant Colonel Dave Welford MBE, Commanding Officer of the KRH, expressed that Anne's visit represented an "absolute privilege" for the British Army site. He emphasized that "her continued interest in engaging with the regiment means a huge amount to all our soldiers," underscoring the morale-boosting impact of her presence.
Ceremonial Role and Royal Responsibilities
Princess Anne assumed the esteemed position of Senior Colonel following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, when King Charles became Colonel in Chief of the Household Division's regiments. This role was previously held by her father, Prince Philip, and serves to bridge the ceremonial gap between the reigning monarch and individual regiments within the Household Division. Known widely as the "hardest working royal," Anne also maintains her position as Colonel of the Household Cavalry's Blues and Royals.
Broader Royal Context and Public Perception
The visit occurs amidst a period of heightened activity for the Princess Royal, who has recently attended numerous Six Nations rugby matches and continues to play what royal experts describe as a "pivotal" role in maintaining public support for the monarchy. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams noted that Anne's "no-nonsense approach" and dedication to duty have made her "synonymous with dedication" within the royal family.
Fitzwilliams highlighted that Princess Anne "relishes a high workload and usually undertakes the most royal engagements of any royal," while preferring to avoid the media attention that follows more high-profile family members. Her practical approach includes reportedly doing her own makeup, sometimes driving herself to engagements, and frequently recycling outfits—attributes that have endeared her to the public.
Despite currently being 18th in the line of succession (a position that would have been fifth if 2013 succession rule changes had been applied retroactively), Princess Anne's popularity remains consistently strong. Royal fans frequently praise her humble demeanor and professional conduct on social media platforms, cementing her reputation as a respected and effective working royal.
