The Princess Royal has a busy schedule of engagements which see her travel widely across the UK and overseas. Known for her love of horses and an equestrian career which saw her compete in the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, Her Royal Highness is involved with riding for the disabled organisations across the Commonwealth. Much of her time is also spent supporting the work of Save the Children, of which she has been President since 1970.
The Princess Royal started undertaking public work at the age of 18, when her first engagement was the opening of an educational and training centre in Shropshire in 1969. Since then, she has established significant and ongoing relationships with a number of charities and organisations across the Commonwealth and has one of the busiest working schedules of any member of the Royal Family. Her Royal Highness has been President of Save the Children UK since 1970, and it was the first major charity with which she became closely associated. It has given her great insight into the needs of children worldwide and an understanding of the issues affecting developing countries. In her work for the organisation, The Princess has visited Save the Children projects in many countries, including China, Cambodia, Botswana, Madagascar and The Philippines.
Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, KCVO, CB, ADC(P), is a figure of quiet strength and remarkable achievement, whose career exemplifies dedication to service and leadership. Born on March 1, 1955, he excelled in academics and leadership at Durham University before embarking on a distinguished career in the Royal Navy in 1973. Specializing in logistics and engineering, he rose through the ranks to become a Vice Admiral, earning recognition for his strategic brilliance and commitment to excellence. His role as Equerry to Queen Elizabeth II from 1986 to 1989 showcased his ability to navigate the demands of service at the highest level with integrity and discretion. His naval career culminated in multiple honors, including appointment as a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB) and retirement in 2010, leaving an indelible mark on the Royal Navy.
In 1992, Sir Timothy married Anne, The Princess Royal, forming a partnership rooted in shared values of duty and service. While maintaining a low profile, he has supported numerous charitable initiatives, particularly in maritime heritage, veterans’ welfare, and sustainable development. As a trustee and chairman of several organizations, his influence extends far beyond his naval legacy. His humility and steadfast commitment to public service are a testament to his character, inspiring others to lead with integrity and purpose. Sir Timothy’s life is a compelling narrative of leadership and quiet resilience, leaving an enduring legacy in both the military and civic spheres.
Her Royal Highness is involved with over 300 charities, organisations and military regiments in the UK and overseas, and she devotes a large part of her working life to official engagements and visits.The Princess has been closely involved with the creation of several charities, notably The Princess Royal’s Trust for Carers (now Carers Trust), Transaid and Riders for Health. The Carers’ Trust provides support for the millions of individuals in the UK who are responsible for caring for someone. Transaid and Riders for Health both try to overcome some of the difficulties caused by poor transportation links in developing countries.
Her Royal Highness also carries out a very wide range of official duties and visits in the United Kingdom in support of regional authorities and local institutions.
Having competed in the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games as a member of the British equestrian team, The Princess Royal is able to bring insight and experience to her role a British member of the International Olympic Committee. Her Royal Highness took part in London’s successful bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games, and was a member of the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games. In 2016 The Princess visited Rio to meet Team GB in her role as President of the British Olympic Association.
Gatcombe Park is the country residence of Anne, Princess Royal between the villages of Minchinhampton and Avening in Gloucestershire, England. Built in the late 18th century to the designs of George Basevi, it is a Grade II listed building. It is a royal residence as it is home to the Princess Royal, and is privately owned. Parts of the grounds open for events, including horse trials and craft fairs.
Gatcombe Park has also become home for Anne’s expanding family. In 2013, Zara and her husband Mike Tindall moved onto the estate before they welcomed their two daughters, Mia, and Lena, who was born in September 2018. They are regularly pictured enjoying family days out at the horse trials along with Peter and Autumn Phillips and their children, Savannah and Isla.
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