King Charles used last Saturday’s magnificent Trooping the Colour ceremony to bring more attention to three areas of royal life that have shrunk in recent times. The annual event is held in June and marks the monarch’s official birthday, despite the fact that Charles’s actual birthday falls in November, the same month as George II during whose reign it was decided that the parade would celebrate the Sovereign’s official birthday.
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Even at the age of 74, Charles impressed onlookers as he rode in the parade himself on horseback, something his late mother Queen Elizabeth had stopped doing at 60.
This year it was noted that the King’s plan to slim down the monarchy was even more evident in the small number of royals who appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch the RAF flypast.
Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams gave an insight into how Charles used the ceremony to share an insight into what kind of King he will turn into.
He told Express.co.uk: “It was certainly a celebration, all five regiments of foot took part for the first time since 1989.
“The gaps evident in the iconic balcony appearance by the Royal Family following the parade point to a considerably smaller working Royal Family.
“The Sussexes and Andrew no longer carry out royal engagements and Princess Alexandra was absent. The Palace is carrying out a review of royal patronages, but the number taken on is likely to be considerably reduced in the future.”
He added that in spite of Army numbers being reduced the royals were keen to emphasise their strong and proud links to the military.
He continued: “It is important to remember these are serving soldiers who are admired around the world for their ceremonial skills.
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“The size of the Army is still being reduced, even during a period where there is another brutal war in Europe.
“At such a time, the Royal Family’s traditional links with the military, who guard the freedoms we prize so much, are of enormous importance.”
According to a lip reader while on the balcony for the flypast Charles made a cheeky remark to Camilla as she reportedly said to him: “Don’t walk away, you know I can’t walk on my throne/own.”
He then replied: “Oh deary me.”
This week the King and Queen have been out and about enjoying Royal Ascot, with Charles expected to attend every day of the five-day racing festival.
