Princess Anne returns to beloved event with heartfelt presence

Princess Anne made a touching return to a cause close to her heart last week, attending a charity polo match in support of the Spinal Injuries Association,an organisation she has long championed as patron.

She will celebrate her 75th birthday next month, was all smiles as she stepped out at Cirencester Park Polo Club, just a short drive from her Gatcombe Park estate. 

The event marked a special comeback for the King’s sister, who was forced to miss the match last summer while recovering from a horse-related accident.

This year, however, Anne appeared in high spirits, soaking up the sunshine and warmly mingling with guests on the polo field. 

HELLO! can exclusively share photographs from the day, capturing the Princess Royal’s radiant return to the polo pitch and her unwavering support for a cause she holds dear.

The event brought together supporters, survivors, and champions of the spinal injury community. Among the guests was Martin Hibbert, Vice President of the charity and one of the closest survivors of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing.

Martin had been attending the Ariana Grande concert with his daughter when the devastating attack occurred. 

Now living with permanent paralysis, he delivered a moving tribute to both the charity and Princess Anne’s unwavering commitment.

"Not only is it an honour to have HRH The Princess Royal attend today, but she really understands spinal cord injury and the impact it has on people's lives she really cares," Martin shared. 

"When I was in hospital, the Spinal Injuries Association visited me at one of my darkest moments. Support network manager Gary Dawson told me, Your life isn't over, it's only just beginning. 

And he was right. With the right support, belief, and community, anyone living with a spinal cord injury can lead a fulfilled life."

The Princess, who had to miss last year’s event due to recovery from a horse-related injury, took to the stage with heartfelt words of her own. 

She thanked the charity’s team and supporters for their vital work and shared her encouragement at seeing so many people connected to the organisation's expert care and resources.