In a rare joint outing, the royal brother and sister duo saluted alongside each other as they presented the new Sovereign’s Standard to the Blues and Royals. The ceremony was held in the quadrangle at Buckingham Palace and both royals sported their military uniforms. In a touching speech, King Charles spoke about the “difficult times” the country faces both domestically and internationally.

The Blues and Royals is the second most senior regiment in the British Army after the Life Guards and traces its origins to Cromwell’s New Model Army in 1650.

King Charles expressed his pride in the troopers, mentioning the bond between the regiment and the monarchy and the Blues and Royals’ dual role as ceremonial troops and operational soldiers.

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Addressing the soldiers, he said: “In these difficult times for our country, as we continue to face an array of threats in many different forms, both domestically and internationally, it is all the more important to preserve such standards of excellence and achievement.”

He added: “Your standard, once the physical rallying point for your forebears, is the golden thread which connects you to your illustrious past.”

The reigning monarch said that the visible medals and uniforms also demonstrated “proven track records” among the soldiers. 

He added: “I know that some of you are currently deployed on duty with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus. Such history pays homage to your dual role, and that of course is the fundamental principle which makes state ceremonial and public duties so special and credible to a most grateful nation.”

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King Charles made a further note, referencing his sister, Princess Anne:  “As your Colonel-in-Chief, I know that your Colonel, the Princess Royal, joins me in thanking you all for your unlimited commitment and service, as well as your families for their tremendous and unwavering support, some of whom I am delighted to see are able to join us today.” 

King Charles finished his speech by stating: “I commend this standard to your safe-keeping as a source of pride and inspiration to all of you – wherever you may be – in the service of your country.” 

Princess Anne and King Charles chatted to the 75 guests in the quadrangle who included past and present members of the Household Cavalry.

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The service occurs every ten years, with the last standard presented by Queen Elizabeth II in May 2014. 

The firm’s managing director, Robin Wright explained because of the passing of the late Queen, all military regalia needed updating with King Charles’s insignia and the Tudor crown.

Mr Wright added: “As it takes three of our skilled people one year to create just four colours, there are thousands of hours of craftsmanship from appliqué ornamental needlework to hand embroidery needed to complete the high standard of elaborate fabrics ready to present to the armed forces in the years ahead.” 

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