The Queen's cancellation of key Balmoral event is 'a sign of things to come'

The 96-year-old monarch has paved the way for a new set of health concerns as the traditional Balmoral welcome event is axed days before the planned ceremony.

The Queen said no to TV, cameras and photographers for this event
© Chris Jackson
The Queen said no to TV, cameras and photographers for this event

Her Majesty was expected to attend the traditional Balmoral welcome ceremony today, however, the event was replaced with a ‘small private event’ to match the monarch’s schedule and comfort. This has prompted fresh fears about her health.

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No paps, please

The Balmoral welcome ceremony is a tradition where the Queen greets well-wishers at the gates of Balmoral Castle to mark the start of her annual Scottish holiday, confirms The Sun. A Guard of Honour from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland, would typically be inspected by the Queen.

However, the inspection will be held in private this year. A Buckingham Palace Spokesperson confirmed:

This year the event will take place inside the castle gates.

She will continue to see the soldiers, but no TV cameras, photographers, or reporters will be present. Sources also suggest that the change of plans was ‘very much a sign of things to come’ and ‘in line with adapting Her Majesty’s schedule for her comfort.’

Earlier this year, it was confirmed that the Queen's roles have been rewritten due to her mobility issues and 'advanced age' and that Prince Charles would be taking over key royal engagements.

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Her Majesty getty_images

After ages

It is understood that until days ago, Her Majesty was still intending to attend the event as planned, however, the change took place at the last minute. This would be the first time in decades – excluding the pandemic – that the monarch will not be greeting people at the Balmoral gate to signify the start of her annual holiday. A Royal source confirmed:

The traditional welcome to Balmoral is normally cemented in the Queen’s calendar and something Her Majesty really enjoys, being able to greet locals who travel to see her.
It’s a bitter disappointment the ceremony will not take place in its traditional form.

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