Skip to main contentSkip to footer

The Queen uses walking stick for first time in 17 years at joint outing with Princess Anne

The pair attended a service at Westminster Abbey

queen westminster abbey
Danielle Stacey
Online Royal CorrespondentLondon
Share this:
queen westminster abbey arrival© Photo: Getty Images

The Queen was pictured using a walking stick for the first time in 17 years as she was accompanied by her daughter, the Princess Royal, to a service of Thanksgiving to mark the centenary of the Royal British Legion (RBL) at Westminster Abbey.

Her Majesty has previously been pictured with a walking aid in 2003 and 2004, following a knee operation. 

In another departure, the 95-year-old monarch, who is the Legion's patron, arrived not by the traditional Great West Door to the abbey but via the Poet's Yard entrance, a shorter route to her seat.

Both developments are understood to be tailored for the Queen's comfort.

Buckingham Palace declined to comment, PA reports. 

The Queen and Princess Anne, 71, joined the congregation representing those the RBL supports - serving members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and their families – alongside RBL members, supporters, staff and volunteers, as well as representatives from a range of community and partner organisations and government.

Tuesday marked the Queen and Princess Anne's first joint outing since Her Majesty's four-day tour of Scotland in June.

READ: Princess Anne's undeniably close bond with her mother the Queen in 11 photos

WATCH: The Queen shares sneak peek at secret Commonwealth Games message

queen outfit© Photo: Getty Images

The monarch looked elegant in a navy blue and matching coat hat for the service, along with a patterned dress. She accessorised with her signature patent loafers and Launer handbag. 

MORE: Princess Anne looks so chic in the brightest look for special Westminster Abbey service

Keep clicking for more...

princess anne westminster abbey© Photo: Getty Images

Meanwhile, the Princess Royal opted for a bold mauve ensemble, accessorising with a pearl necklace and a circular brooch. 

queen anne westminster© Photo: Getty Images

The Royal British Legion has been celebrating its 100th anniversary throughout 2021 with a special programme of activity, paying tribute to those who have contributed to its proud history and celebrating with the communities across the UK and around the world who are at its heart. 

MORE: The Queen's employee reveals what it's REALLY like to work for Her Majesty

princess anne reading© Photo: Getty Images

During the service, led by The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster, the Princess Royal gave a reading and the RBL's National President led the Act of Rededication, reaffirming RBL's commitment to its work and service.

MORE: The Queen attends church for the first time in 18 months

queen flowers westminster abbey© Photo: Getty Images

The Queen looked thrilled to have been given a bouquet of flowers following the service. 

queen smile westminster abbey© Photo: Getty Images

The Queen also accessorised with Queen Mary's Russian brooch, which contains a square sapphire and a diamond, surrounded by smaller diamonds. She inherited the jewels when her grandmother Queen Mary passed away in 1953. 

More Royalty

See more