Princess Alexandra, the 89-year-old cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II , reportedly missed a scheduled appearance at a concert in Westminster this past Sunday. The event was held to celebrate the legacy of the Duchess of Kent, Alexandra's sister-in-law, at Sinfonia Smith Square.
A last-minute withdrawal from the Duchess of Kent tribute
While the official Court Circular initially listed Princess Alexandra as attending the performance to celebrate the charity co-founder's legacy, she was unable to make the event. The concert was intended to honor the late Duchess of Kent, a significant figure within the royal family circle.
The discrepancy between the official schedule and the actual attendance was noted by media observers. As reported by the Daily Mail, a source told journalist Richard Eden that the Princess "unfortunately had to pull out at the last moment." This sudden change left a notable gap in the royal presence at the Westminster venue.
A six-month hiatus from the public eye
This absence is particularly significant given the Princess's historical role within the monarchy. Princess Alexandra was a bridesmaid at the wedding of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in November 1947, serving as a close link to the late monarch. She has traditionally been a fixture at major family milestones, including the Queen's centenary in April and the annual Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace.
However, the Princess has become less visible in recent months. According to the report, her last public engagement took place nearly six months ago. While she and her siblings have scaled back their official duties in recent years, she continues to reside at Thatched House Lodge in Richmond, the home she shared with her late husband, Angus Ogilvy, until his death in 2004.
The Kent family presence at Sinfonia Smith Square
Despite the Princess's absence, the tribute saw a strong showing from the extended Kent family. the event included the Duchess of Kent's three children: Lady Helen Taylor, the Earl of St Andrews, and Lord Nicholas Windsor. Their presence underscored the importance of the charity's legacy.
The gathering also included the next generation of the family, with grandchildren Lady Marina Windsor and Lady Amelia Windsor in attendance. Other notable guests included Lord Frederick Windsor, who was accompanied by his wife, the Peep Show actress Sophie Winkleman. The event sreved as a significant moment of reflection for the family members gathered in London.
What caused the Princess to pull out at the last moment?
The suddenness of the withdrawal has left several questions unanswered. While the Court Circular provided the initial itinerary, the specific reason for the Princess's last-minute cancellation has not been disclosed. It remains unclear whether the absence was due to a temporary health issue, travel difficulties, or a broader shift in her public schedule.
Furthermore, the report does not clarify if this is an isolated incident or part of a continuing trend of reduced public appearances. Without an official statement regarding her health or her future engagement schedule,the reasons for her absence at Sinfonia Smith Square remain unverified.
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