Chief Executive of the RDA, Michael Bishop, is thrilled that Anne is able to attend today, and said: “We are honoured to welcome The Princess Royal to our flagship event the RDA National Championships, at which we are celebrating our 55th anniversary and delighted that she has chosen to join us as she returns to Royal duties.

“As our President, The Princess holds a very special place in the hearts of the entire RDA community and has helped us celebrate many significant milestones and provided invaluable support for over five decades.”

The RDA National Championship is the biggest equestrian event of its kind for disabled competitors held over three days at Hartpury University and College.

Competitors take part in dressage, vaulting, endurance showjumping, carriage driving, performance showing and Countryside Challenge classes.

The Championships uniquely demonstrate RDA’s impact, and their role in supporting disabled people to access physical activity and sport.

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) is a charity benefiting the lives of disabled children and adults.

RDA welcomes people with physical and learning disabilities, long-term health conditions and neurodiversity.

Activities, including riding, carriage driving and non-mounted interactions, provide therapy, fitness, skills development, and opportunities for achievement that unlock advantages and enrich lives – all supported by teams of volunteers and qualified coaches across the UK.