UK Edition
The Princess of Wales has written to the Irish Guards to apologise for missing the Colonel’s Review on Saturday.
Catherine, the Colonel of the Regiment, wished troops the best of luck, saying she was sorry that she could not attend while continuing her recovery from cancer.
The Colonel’s Review is held seven days ahead of the Trooping the Colour parade, which has marked the sovereign’s birthday for more than 260 years.
Writing as Colonel Catherine, she said: “I wanted to write and let you know how proud I am of the entire regiment ahead of the Colonel’s Review and Trooping the Colour. I appreciate everyone trooping this year has been practising for months, and dedicating many hours to ensuring their uniforms and drill are immaculate.
“Being your Colonel remains a great honour, and I am very sorry that I’m unable to take the salute at this year’s Colonel’s Review. Please pass my apologies to the whole regiment, however I do hope that I am able to represent you all once again very soon.”
Signing off with the Irish Guards motto of Who Will Separate Us? she added: “Please send my very best wishes and good luck to all involved. Quis separabit.”
The letter was read out to the Guards, including the sign-off Colonel Catherine.
In response, the regiment said it was “touched” by the Princess’ gesture. On X, formerly Twitter, it said: “The Irish Guards were deeply touched to receive a letter from our Colonel, Her Royal Highness, The Princess of Wales this morning.
“We continue to wish Her Royal Highness well in her recovery and send her our very best wishes.”
Royal sources emphasised that the message from the Princess of Wales did not mark a return to work for her.
A palace source said: “This is a really significant moment for the Irish Guards. The Princess is continuing her recovery at home, and is grateful for the continued space and privacy being afforded to her.”
Her message came after Prince William shared an update on her health this week, telling D-Day veterans that she was “getting better”.
The Princess will be represented at the Colonel’s Review by General James Bucknall, who will act as the chief inspecting officer of the day in her absence.