Colonel Kate: Princess of Wales writes letter to Irish Guards expressing her pride

The Princess of Wales has written to the Irish Guards to express her pride in the soldiers and wish them good luck for the Colonel's Review.

As Colonel of the regiment, Kate would usually take the salute at the ceremonial event, but she apologised for being unable to attend as she continues to receive treatment for cancer.

The letter, which was signed 'Colonel Catherine', was read out to the troops at their barracks and received a round of applause. 

• Kate to miss Trooping the Colour rehearsal, with general to inspect troops instead 
• What is Trooping the Colour? All you need to know about the big day 
• Troops put on display of pomp and precision in first public Trooping the Colour rehearsal

The letter said: "I wanted to write and let you know how proud I am of the entire regiment ahead of the Colonel's Review and Trooping the Colour.

"I appreciate everyone trooping this year has been practising for months and dedicating many hours to ensuring their uniforms and drill are immaculate.

"Being your Colonel remains a great honour and I am very sorry that I'm unable to take the salute at this year's Colonel's Review.

"Please pass my apologies to the whole regiment, however I do hope that I am able to represent you all once again very soon."

The regiment's motto – Quis Separabit, which means 'who shall separate us' – was also handwritten.

The Irish Guards wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that they were "deeply touched" to receive the letter which was addressed to Major General Chris Ghika, Regimental Lieutenant Colonel of the Irish Guards.

"We continue to wish Her Royal Highness well in her recovery and send her our very best wishes," the regiment said.

The Colonel's Review, which was held at Horse Guards Parade in central London on Saturday was the final rehearsal ahead of Trooping the Colour next weekend.

Trooping the Colour, which celebrates the King's official birthday, is the highlight of the Armed Forces' ceremonial calendar.

Each year a different regimental colour is trooped, with the colour of Number 9 Company, Irish Guards, chosen for 2024.

The King, who is also undergoing cancer treatment, is expected to inspect the soldiers from a carriage rather than on horseback as he did at last year's Trooping the Colour.

At the Colonel's Review, General James Bucknall will represent Kate and act as Chief Inspecting Officer in her absence.

It remains unclear whether Kate will attend Trooping the Colour on Saturday.