**Unexpected Carriage Mishap for Princess Anne Delays Royal Ascot Procession**
Princess Anne found herself at the centre of unexpected commotion on Tuesday morning as her carriage encountered mechanical trouble en route to Royal Ascot. A gathering of local residents and well-wishers in the Berkshire village of Cheapside witnessed the incident, which momentarily delayed the famed royal procession associated with the opening day of the prestigious racing event.
The scene unfolded as an eager crowd, bolstered by clear skies and a festive mood, lined the village roads to greet the Royal Family. Adding a sudden dash of drama to proceedings, one of the horses pulling Princess Anne’s carriage broke its reins, forcing the ceremonial convoy to a halt. The second carriage, already laden with distinguished guests including the Duke and Duchess of Wellington and Mrs Annabel Elliot—Queen Camilla’s sister—became the focus of hasty activity as royal aides and staff mobilised to resolve the issue.
A local bystander, Paul Arora, captured footage of the moment, describing it to reporters as “a quintessential English scene, with the King and members of the Royal Family making their way through a picturesque village.” While initially an unforeseen setback, Arora described how the mishap added a sense of excitement and admiration for the efficiency with which royal staff rectified the breakdown. According to witnesses, the delay lasted only a few minutes before the procession resumed its stately advance.
The incident sparked conversation among onlookers, some of whom noted how it offered a rare unscripted glimpse of royal life. “It really got people talking,” remarked another resident. “The children especially thought it was quite something to see how quickly the Royal Household responded. Even the King, in the carriage ahead, waited patiently until it was safe to continue.” The brief pause did little to dampen spirits, with many saying it simply added a touch of unpredictability to the day’s events.
Across the region, garden parties and community gatherings celebrated the opening of Royal Ascot—one of the highlights of the British sporting and social calendar. The first carriage of the processional sequence carried King Charles III and Queen Camilla, accompanied by Prince Faisal bin Salman Al Saud and Lady Sarah Keswick, underlining the continuing international resonance of the tradition.
Additional carriages showcased further notable figures. Among them were Peter Phillips, Princess Anne’s son, who rode alongside celebrated author Mr Anthony Horowitz and his wife. Another carriage conveyed Lord and Lady Vestey with Mr and Lady Morton Jack, reflecting the event’s blend of royal, aristocratic, and cultural attendees.
This year holds particular significance as it marks the bicentenary of the Royal Ascot procession, a ritual inaugurated in 1825 during the reign of George IV. The tradition, now two centuries old, remains a vivid symbol of national heritage, echoing the deep connection between the monarchy and the sport of kings.
Upon arrival at the racecourse, King Charles and Queen Camilla expressed both nostalgia and anticipation in their message for the official programme. Reflecting on their own recent success, they wished “all those competing this week the very best of luck” and hoped spectators would “enjoy a most entertaining five days.” The couple’s optimism was especially evident as their horse, Reaching High—trained by Willie Mullins—prepared to contend in the Ascot Stakes. Regarded as a favourite by bookmakers, Reaching High represents one of several royal runners entering the fray over the course of the week.
This moment continues the royal household’s long tradition with thoroughbred racing, most notably championed by the late Queen Elizabeth II, whose horses racked up over twenty Royal Ascot victories during her reign. Since ascending to the throne, Charles and Camilla have taken on the stewardship of the royal stables and celebrated their own Ascot victory in 2023 with Desert Hero’s triumph in the King George V Stakes.
Far from overshadowing the day, the brief interruption to the royal carriage procession appeared to underscore the enduring appeal of these grand traditions—reminding onlookers that, even amidst ceremony and celebration, unexpected moments can unite communities in shared experience. As Royal Ascot continues, attention remains fixed not only on the races, but on the enduring relationship between Britain’s royal family and the public they inspire.