Princes Anne is renowned for her relentless schedule and unfailing dedication to duty, but the royal met her match this week in the form of a centenarian war hero. On Tuesday, Princess Anne hosted The Not Forgotten Association's annual garden party at Buckingham Palace, an event dedicated to providing recreation and support for ex-servicemen and women.
As she began greeting the guests, 75-year-old Anne was approached by Second World War veteran Robert (Bob) Piper, who told her, "to slow down" when they spoke about his military service.
Anne, who has a reputation for being one of the hardest-working royals, joked with the veteran as she greeted people from the charity.
Mr Piper, who is a D-Day veteran, told the Press Association: "I said to her, you know, she's got to slow down. She's done it so many years and she is a pro, she knows all the answers before you do."
Special outing
© Getty ImagesThe Princess Royal, who is patron of The Not Forgotten Association, first appeared on the Palace's West Terrace steps, joined by her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.
As she spoke to veterans on the grass, guests told the Princess, "You brought the sun," to which she laughed and replied that is "never anything to do with me, I promise".
Despite overcast skies, ice cream was served on silver trays and more than 2,000 guests gathered in high spirits to enjoy the party, with service dogs also joining in the celebrations. As the rain started, Anne swiftly brought out a green umbrella with a duck handle, which matched her green hat and dress.
Mickey Turner, who rowed 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, briefly chatted to Anne about his tough challenge. Mr Turner told the PA: "What I said to Her Royal Highness is it was about raising the profile of mental and physical health, which is something I am really passionate about. There is a lot of people here today that are on that journey as well."
© Getty ImagesMr Turner, who previously served with the Royal Marines, has also canoed from Leeds to Liverpool to raise funds for The Not Forgotten Association.
Hardest-working royal
Last year, the Princess carried out 478 engagements, a little less than the 532 engagements logged by the monarch. The Duke of Edinburgh was third with 313 and his wife, the Duchess of Edinburgh, carried out 235.
© GettyPrincess Anne has long held the mantle, being named the hardest-working royal in both 2023 and 2024, with 433 and 457 engagements respectively. However, she actually increased her workload by 10.39% last year.
The royal is mother to Peter Phillips, 48, and Zara Tindall, 45, with her ex-husband Mark Phillips. Neither of her children have royal titles or are working royals, due to a decision made by their parents when they were born.
