Queen Elizabeth II cancels welcome ceremony in Scotland

Traditionally, Queen Elizabeth II (96) is welcomed to her summer vacation at Balmoral Castle in Scotland with a welcome ceremony.

Queen Elizabeth II cancels welcome ceremony in Scotland

Traditionally, Queen Elizabeth II (96) is welcomed to her summer vacation at Balmoral Castle in Scotland with a welcome ceremony. However, this event has now been canceled at short notice, as reported by the British "Mirror". Instead, a small, private event will 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 regular fixture on the Queen's calendar and something Her Majesty greatly enjoys." The fact that the ceremony "will not take place in its traditional form" is "a great disappointment".

Other unspecified sources, however, spoke of a "good sign for the future". Buckingham Palace itself said the private ceremony now planned was "in line" with adapting the Queen's schedule to her "well-being," according to The 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.