The royal family’s famous show is facing serious calls for a review of its security protocols after a heartbreaking loss.
The British monarch, 77, has reportedly taken action to ensure safety measures following the death of a young soldier during a King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery performance earlier this month.
Lance Bombardier Ciara Sullivan, 24, died after falling from her horse on 15 May.
Heartbroken Britons urged officials to heed their concerns. They questioned whether traditional ceremonial practices, including the use of historical headgear rather than modern protective helmets, should continue in public displays.
She had worn the regiment’s ceremonial busby hat as part of the King’s Troop uniform.
The insider claimed, “The organizers need to adopt a smart strategy to save lives.
“We may face the same situation in the future if measures are not taken.”
World War I QF 13-pounder field artillery, constructed of steel and wood with large spoked wheels, pulled at speed by six horses arranged in three rows.
During performances, the riders guide the heavy weapon through complex arena maneuvers and sharp turns.
“These carriages were invented centuries ago, before modern safety measures. They are not fit for purpose and neither are the hats. There should be a serious review of horse shows like this,” a source told Mail.
Another said: “The continued use of traditional headgear, which offers only limited protection, needs to be reviewed in an activity where serious head injury is an ever-present risk.”
It announced the following morning: “The Royal Windsor Horse Show will continue as planned, with the omission of The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery display.”
Following the shocking incident, Chief Superintendent Michael Loebenberg said: “We are appealing to anyone with information or material relating to the tragic death of a military rider at the Royal Windsor Horse Show yesterday to get in touch.”
“At this stage we have not found any suspicious circumstances. We are working with the Ministry of Defence, the Defense Accident Investigation Branch and Royal Windsor Horse Show organizers HPower to gather as much information as possible to understand how this happened.”
Buckingham Palace released a statement saying the king was “very shocked and saddened” by the tragedy.
The monarch also conveyed his condolences privately to her family.
