Princess Anne makes surprise return to royal duties after five nights in hospital following horse injury

Princess Anne made a triumphant return to Royal engagements this afternoon (12 July) at the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) National Championships in Gloucestershire, despite admitting she "can't remember a single thing" about the horse accident that left her with head injuries.This is the first sighting of the Princess Royal since her unexpected horse riding injury on Sunday, 23 June.The incident occurred during an evening walk on her Gatcombe Park estate, resulting in minor head injuries believed to be from contact with a horse's leg or head, according to her doctors.

After a five-night hospital stay, she was released on Friday, 28 June, and has been recuperating ever since. Despite the remnants of bruising under her left eye, she was all smiles at the event, looking elegant in a grey suit, vibrant scarf, and blue hat.

Upon arrival, she was warmly greeted by RDA chairwoman Helena Vega Lozano and CEO Michael Bishop, before she mingled with attendees, handed out awards, and congratulated winners.The Princess seemed overjoyed to resume her duties, celebrating the RDA's 55th anniversary.

She has been a dedicated supporter since becoming its Patron in November 1971 and President in March 1986. Helena Vega Lozano, RDA UK's chair, expressed immense pride at the princess choosing the RDA event as her first post-accident appearance, saying: "It's a huge honour for the princess to come to the RDA as her only event since the accident." She recounted Anne's words upon arriving: "As soon as she got out of the car she said: 'I can't remember a single thing about it.'" Delighted by the visit, Ms Vega Lozano remarked: "It's hugely motivating and inspiring to have her here." Michael Bishop, Chief Executive of the RDA,.