The Queen’s arrival to Balmoral Castle in Scotland will see her traditional welcome replaced by a "small, private event", sparking fresh health fears.
It was the first time in decades, other than during the coronavirus pandemic, she has not greeted well-wishers at the castle gates at the beginning of her summer holiday.
The Mirror reports that the 96-year-old monarch was planning to greet fans at the gates until just days ago.
A royal source said: "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."
Buckingham Palace tried to relieve concerns for the Queen’s health on Sunday night, saying the private event was “in line with adapting Her Majesty’s schedule for her comfort”.
Traditionally, the Queen would be greeted by a guard of honour from The Royal Regiment of Scotland.
But this year, she will instead attend a small, private event on the Balmoral lawns.
The Queen has taken more of a back seat for royal engagements in recent times with members of the royal family stepping in for her.
Prince Charles recently represented the Queen at the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony.
