Princess Anne was notably absent from the royal family’s annual Christmas church trip in Sandringham, however the Princess Royal had a very good reason for not attending. This Christmas Day saw the royals walking to the church on their Norfolk estate for their first Christmas without the Queen, who passed away in September.
However Princess Anne did not attend the service as she is reportedly suffering from a cold, according to The Mirror.
Her children Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall were in attendance, as well the King and Queen Consort, the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Earl and Countess of Wessex and Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.
Many of the royal children were spotted, including young Prince Louis who donned shorts for the occasion despite the wintery season.
The Princess Royal is known for being one of the hardest working royals, and has carried out a huge 214 engagements this year alone.
It is thought this Christmas she is taking a well-deserved break.
The 72-year-old was also absent from the Together at Christmas carol service held on December 15 at Westminster Abbey, but this was due to a schedule clash rather than illness.
Anne attended the London International Horse Show at ExCel London on the same day, meaning she could not make the festive carol service.
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Kate said she was “thrilled” to return to the Abbey in 2022, adding: “Her Majesty held Christmas close to her heart, as a time that brought people together and reminded us of the importance of faith, friendship and family, and to show empathy and compassion.
“This year, we’ve invited hundreds of inspiring individuals to the service.”
A Christmas tree in the venue was decorated with small Paddington Bear decorations in a touching nod to the Queen’s famous Jubilee sketch.
