The three eldest grandchildren of the Princess Royal have been making the most of the spring weather and enjoying a family day out in Gloucestershire. Mia Tindall and Savannah and Isla Phillips played happily together at the Gatcombe Park Horse Trials.
It was a real family affair as Mia’s mum, Zara, was competing at the event which is organised every year by Princess Anne. Savannah Phillips, who is now eight, gave her younger cousin, five year old Mia, a piggy back at one point as they made the most of the March sunshine. Isla Phillips, who will turn seven this summer, hitched a lift with her dad, Peter, instead.
The Gatcombe Park Horse Trials take place every year at Anne’s country home in Gloucestershire. They started over twenty five years ago and competitors are tested on a course designed by the princess herself. The two day event includes dressage and cross country as well as show jumping and this year has attracted riders from 21 countries, more than ever before.
Zara Tindall, who won a silver medal at the London Olympics, took part in this year’s Gatcombe event riding ‘Gladstone’. She’s enjoyed a long and successful career in equestrianism and was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2006 after winning individual gold at he World Equestrian Championships that year.
This latest family appearance comes just a week after Anne and her clan were all together for the christening of Zara and Mike Tindall’s younger daughter, Lena, who was born last summer. The Queen also attended the ceremony which was held at St. Nicholas’ Church in Cherington, Gloucestershire. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were also there – Prince Harry is Lena’s godfather. And earlier in March, the Princess Royal was also seen several times at the Cheltenham Festival with Peter, Autumn, Zara and Mike.