When the Queen embarks on her summer vacation at Balmoral Castle, there is always a special welcoming ceremony. But this year the ritual is cancelled. This feeds again the speculation about the state of health of the 96-year-old.
Traditionally, Queen Elizabeth II is welcomed to her summer holiday at Balmoral Castle in Scotland with a welcome ceremony. However, the event has now been canceled at short notice, as reported by the British "Mirror". Instead, a small, private event would take place.
The news raises renewed concerns about the health of the 96-year-old monarch. According to "Mirror", the queen planned to take part in the official welcoming ceremony until a few days ago. Apart from the cancellation in 2020 due to the pandemic, it is the first time in decades that the event has been cancelled.
According to a royal insider, "The traditional greeting at Balmoral is usually a fixture on the Queen's calendar and something Her Majesty enjoys immensely." The fact that the ceremony "will not take place in its traditional form" is "a great disappointment". Buckingham Palace itself, however, said the private ceremony now planned was "in line" with adjusting the schedule to the "well-being" of the Queen, according to "Mirror".
At the ceremony, the Queen traditionally inspects a Scottish honor guard and meets the Royal Regiment of Scotland's mascot, Shetland pony Lance Corporal Cruachan IV , photographers and reporters.
Queen Elizabeth II has been on her summer vacation in Scotland since July 21. Until now she has lived in the smaller country house, Craigowan Lodge. It is believed that she is now relocating to Balmoral Castle, which is very close by. The castle then remains closed to the public until they leave.
