King Charles and Queen Camilla made their return to Royal Ascot on Tuesday as they led the horse-drawn carriage procession around the grounds. Sitting in the first carriage with Prince Faisal bin Salman Al Saud and Lady Sarah Keswick, the King and Queen looked delighted to be back.
With the second, third and fourth carriages for day one also filled with some of the couple’s family and close friends, it marked a spectacular return to the famous racecourse. And, as it came so soon after ceremonies steeped in tradition like Trooping the Colour and the Order of the Garter, Royal Ascot is a chance for the family to come together and celebrate one of their greatest shared passions.
While it is yet to be confirmed, it has been reported that King Charles will attend each day of the five-day celebration owing to a newfound “passion.”
As the Royal Procession began, Princess Anne waved to the crowds from the second carriage, where she was seated alongside Queen Camilla’s sister, Annabel Elliot, and the Duke and Duchess of Wellington.
Meanwhile, in the third carriage, the King’s nephew, Peter Phillips, was joined by his girlfriend, Harriet Sperling, and author Anthony Horowitz, who sat next to his wife, Jill.
The fourth carriage carried Lady Joanna Morton Jack, her husband, Henry Morton Jack, as well as Lord and Lady Vestey.
Royal Ascot, which is taking place from June 17 until June 21 this year, is one of Britain’s most well-known racecourses and is frequently attended by the Royal Family. It was founded by Queen Anne in 1711 and has since received the support of a further twelve monarchs.
While the King’s passion for horse-racing does not measure up to the devotion shown by the late Queen, it was reported by The Sun, that the monarch will attend all five days of the event this year after being left “surprised” by his newfound love of the sport.
Sources claimed that the monarch enjoys getting “stuck in” during the event, alongside his wife, Queen Camilla, who also has a passion for horse racing.