An aide, Grant Harrold, who was well-versed in the workings of the Palace has just shed some light into Princess Anne’s demeanor, drawing parallels between her and her late father, Prince Philip.
Harrold, who served King Charles and Queen Camilla from 2004 to 2011, also cared for Prince William and Kate Middleton at Highgrove. Having observed the royal family closely, he noted Princess Anne’s fearless attitude and bravery, particularly evident after a recent horse-related accident that led to her hospitalization.
In an interview with Slingo, Harrold praised Princess Anne as “the strongest working Royal,” attributing her resilience and straightforward nature to her father, Prince Philip.
He highlighted her inherited mannerisms, traits, and sense of humor, which mirror those of Prince Philip. Harrold also commended Princess Anne’s dedication to her royal duties and her no-nonsense approach, emphasizing her contributions to the country.
He said: “I do actually see lots of similarities between Princess Anne and her mum. Anne loves horse racing, I’m sure when she’s there she’ll get flashbacks to past events. She was very good with her mother and spent a lot of time with her.
“They’ve got lots of similarities with looks and mannerisms but also with her father. Philip was a very straight-talking man and so is she. Anne has great humour and is a great support for the King.”
This comes as Princess Anne remains in hospital recovering from injuries she sustained in an accident with a horse on Sunday. It is speculated by some that she may have been kicked or headbutted by the animal on her Gatcombe Park estate.
Buckingham Palace said in a statement: “The Princess Royal has sustained minor injuries and concussion following an incident on the Gatcombe Park estate yesterday evening. Her Royal Highness remains in Southmead Hospital, Bristol, as a precautionary measure for observation and is expected to make a full and swift recovery.
“The King has been kept closely informed and joins the whole Royal Family in sending his fondest love and well-wishes to The Princess for a speedy recovery.”