The Earl of Wessex will follow in the footsteps of the late Duke of Edinburgh, by becoming the next president of the Royal Windsor Horse Show.
Prince Philip, who passed away in April 2021, held the role of president from 1991, and even competed in the international carriage driving competition. It is a hobby that the Duke passed on to his granddaughter, Lady Louise, who has competed at a number of competitions.
Upon the announcement of his presidency, Prince Edward said: “My father was instrumental in helping to develop Royal Windsor into one of the most prestigious horse shows in the world.
“I am honoured to have been invited to become only the fourth president in the show’s history and will do all I can to maintain the show’s reputation throughout the equestrian community and beyond; something my father was passionate about.”
The Earl and Countess of Wessex have previously been involved with the annual event, at all levels. The couple most recently served as Royal Vice Presidents.
Simon Brooks-Ward, Show Director, said: “We are honoured and delighted that His Royal Highness has accepted to be our President. He has always been involved in the event, cares deeply about its future and we know that we will be in good hands.”
Lady Louise Windsor with her mother Sophie, The Countess of Wessex, taking part in the carriage Procession at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in 2018.
The Duke of Edinburgh was a ‘hands-on’ president, with many of the event improvements down to his guiding hand and personal intervention. He even wrote and typed up the foreword himself for every souvenir programme during his tenure.
According to Royal Windsor Horse Show, Prince Philip ‘had a watchful eye and would often make suggestions to the Committee on ways to improve the show and its competition’.
The Royal Windsor Horse Show takes place in the private grounds of Windsor Castle each year, celebrating equine sport, culture and activities. This year’s event will feature an additional performance over four nights (The Platinum Jubilee Celebration), entitled a ‘Gallop through History’. It will feature over 500 horses, 1,200 participants and an 80-piece orchestra.
