After a busy schedule of public engagements in recent weeks, the Duchess of Edinburgh was seen enjoying one of her favorite activities as the Easter weekend begins.
The 59-year-old royal, who has increasingly been seen carrying out public duties while King Charles and the Princess of Wales receive cancer treatment, was seen holding the reins of a horse-drawn carriage on the grounds of the Windsor Castle this morning. .
With an assistant during the trip, the duchess appeared to be an expert in the sport enjoyed by her entire family, particularly her daughter Lady Louise, 20.
The Duchess of Edinburgh, accompanied by an assistant, is pictured Friday at Windsor Castle taking a solo carriage ride.
The Edinburghs are accomplished horsemen, and Sophie and Lady Louise, 20, particularly enjoy the rural chase.
Prince Edward’s wife wore a waxed riding coat as she walked the Windsor trail, hoping for some Easter sunshine broken by gray clouds over Berkshire.
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are likely to be among the few royals to join the King and Queen on Easter Sunday at Windsor Church.
Her Majesty will lead a smaller-than-normal family party for the Easter Mattins Service at St George’s Chapel, given the absence of the Prince and Princess of Wales and their family.
Last week, Princess Kate revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer following her abdominal surgery in January and is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment..
In a pre-recorded speech to attendees at Thursday’s annual Holy Service, King Charles emphasized the importance of extending a helping hand to those in need, as a new portrait (pictured) of the monarch was released.
Every Thursday before Easter Sunday, the sovereign gives gifts in coins equivalent to their age to pensioners who have contributed to their church and community; This year, Queen Camilla played this role on behalf of her husband.
It will be the King’s most significant public appearance since he was diagnosed with cancer in early February.
After being advised by doctors not to hold public engagements with large numbers of people while receiving treatment, Her Majesty decided to record a special audio message to be played at Thursday’s annual Holy Service.
Held this year at Worcester Cathedral, it is one of the most important events on the royal calendar each year and had great spiritual significance for Queen Elizabeth.
In his speech, King Charles highlighted the importance of extending the hand of friendship to those less fortunate.
His Majesty said at the service that the Lord Jesus gave us an “example of how we should serve and care for one another.”
I’m still working: King Charles looked cheerful and cheerful on Wednesday as he continued his “business as usual” outlook amid his battle with cancer. Pictured: Charles meeting Mohamed Nasheed, Secretary General of the Climate Vulnerability Forum.
King Charles’ daughter-in-law Kate Middleton (pictured) is also battling cancer; Her speech during Thursday’s annual Holy Service urged people to “extend the hand of friendship to those in need.”
He went on to emphasize how, as a nation, “we benefit greatly from those who extend the hand of friendship to us, especially in times of need.”
A new portrait was published to accompany the message, showing the King relaxed and in good spirits, with a bouquet of spring flowers at his side, despite his personal ordeal.