Smiling Prince Andrew seen in Windsor despite major royal setback

Prince Andrew was recently spotted enjoying a horse ride around Windsor, just days before a major royal event from which he and his daughters-Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are reportedly excluded. 

The Duke of York appeared cheerful as he rode alongside Terry Pendry, the late Queen Elizabeth's longtime stud groom and trusted confidant. 

Smiling broadly, the 65-year-old royal was dressed in full riding attire, including a helmet, gloves, and a khaki jacket. Pendry, who shared nearly three decades of riding companionship with Queen Elizabeth, accompanied the King's younger for the relaxed outing. 

Later that day, Prince Andrew was also seen behind the wheel of a car, sporting a burgundy top and looking at ease as he carried on his day in Windsor. 

This rare public appearances comes just ahead of the annual Trooping the Colour parade in central London-a significant royal event celebrating the King's official birthday-from which Prince Andrew will remain absent. 

King Charles is set to lead the festivities alongside senior royals such as Princess Anne, Prince Edward, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Princess Kate, Timothy Laurence, and the Duchess of Edinburgh. 

The Prince and Princess of Wales's three children-Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis-are also expected to take part. Prince Andrew's absence from this high-profile event continues his exclusion from official duties, a status he has maintained since stepping back as a working royal. 

His former wife, Sarah Ferguson, along with their daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, are also not expected to attend the Trooping the Colour ceremony.