But just minutes after the carriage list had been released, Kensington Palace confirmed she would not be there. The Palace suggested today that the princess’ attendance had not been confirmed with Royal Ascot and her name being printed in the official programme and being announced by racing chiefs at the festival to appear in the royal procession was due to a “communications error”.
The Princess was announced to be present in the royal procession at noon before her no show was confirmed by Kensington Palace at 12.20pm.
A spokesperson said: “We notified Ascot that Her Royal Highness would not be attending. “Unfortunately an inaccurate version of the carriage list was issued in error after that notification. The correct list was then circulated.” The Prince and Princess of Wales are not expected to attend any further days of the festival.
It is that understood Kate is trying to find the right balance as she fully returns to public-facing engagements. A royal source reiterated that Kensington Palace has consistently stressed the need for ‘flexibility’ around the Princess of Wales’ public engagements.
The source added that the princess completed three engagements in the last week, attending the new V&A East Storeroom exhibition space in London, the King’s official birthday celebrations at Trooping the Colour on Saturday and Garter Day on Monday in Windsor.
A source at Royal Ascot said: “Obviously it’s a great disappointment the Princess of Wales not being able to attend, but everyone is of course mindful of her schedule and we look forward to welcoming her next year.”
William is still attending Royal Ascot today and is down to present the trophy to the winner of the Prince of Wales stakes later this afternoon. Kate’s mum Carole Middleton has also been spotted attending the festival today alongside Alizee Thevenet, who is married to the princess’s brother James Middleton.
Racegoers at the racecourse today were sad to hear the Princess of Wales had pulled out of attending. Couple Jill and Ian from Aldershot, Surrey, were looking forward to getting a glimpse of the royal. Jill, 65, told the Mirror: “My daughter just came over to tell us that Kate won’t be here.
“It’s disappointing but she’s got to pace herself. Our daughter was very ill once so we understand.” Ian, 70, added: “It’s a very hot day even if you’re in full health so I think it’s the right decision. William and the King and Queen will be here so still lots to look forward to.”
Dawn Denning, 58, said: “Good for her, I think it’s the right decision. If you’re not feeling your best the last thing you want is someone taking photos of you. She’s done what’s right for her which is the most important thing.”
Her pal Jane Price, 56, added: “I’m gutted but completely understand. It’s such a hot day and she [Kate] has been so busy recently I think anyone would need a break. I had cancer but was 31. How she’s managed at 43 and with three young children is quite remarkable.”
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