King embraced by Zara Tindall as he arrives at Royal Windsor Horse Show
The King was enveloped in a warm embrace by his niece, Zara Tindall, as he arrived at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.
His Majesty, 75, appeared delighted to be at the annual event, where he was welcomed with open arms following his return to public duties.
Mrs Tindall, 42, greeted the monarch with a tight hug, clearly relieved that he was on the mend and able to attend the show.
The affectionate display was demonstrative of the pair’s close relationship.
The King met his niece overlooking the Royal Windsor Endurance course, which takes riders along landmarks such as the famous Long Walk.
Among the royal group were Lord Soames, a long-time friend of the King, who served as his equerry when he was the Prince of Wales, comic Rory Bremner, former racing driver Jackie Stewart and ex-Defence Secretary Ben Wallace.
The King was also pictured chatting to Simon Brooks-Ward, the director of the Royal Windsor Horse Show, who knew the late Queen well.
The visit marked the King’s third public appearance this week, following his return to public engagements in the wake of his cancer diagnosis.
It came just three days after he met staff and patients at the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre when he spoke of his “shock” at his diagnosis and sympathetically nodded as he chatted to patients undergoing chemotherapy.
On Wednesday, he was presented with the Coronation Roll at Buckingham Palace, where he carefully examined the historic document with the Queen.
The King’s triumphant return to the royal front line came after doctors said they were pleased with the progress of his cancer treatment.
The monarch was previously said to have been “a little frustrated” by the impact his news had on others, and the length of time his treatment had kept him away from his usual interactions with the public.
He now hopes to continue with a managed return to public duties, which will likely include Buckingham Palace garden parties, Trooping the Colour and D-Day anniversary events as well as hosting an incoming State Visit from the Emperor and Empress of Japan.
The King’s busy week did not appear to have had an undue effect on his health.
Undeterred by the inclement weather, he appeared in fine form at the Royal Windsor Horse Show as he chatted to officials under an umbrella.
The show encompasses a variety of equestrian sport, including the Land Rover International Carriage Driving Grand Prix, national and international show jumping competitions and equestrian displays
Queen Elizabeth II was pictured beaming at the wheel of a Range Rover at the event in July 2021, just over a year before she died.
