Princess Anne's 75th 'low-key' birthday marked with rare portrait

Princess Anne is turning 75 on Friday, she’s keeping it low-key and all about the work. 

Buckingham Palace released a new official photo to mark the milestone after persuading the no-fuss royal to pose with husband Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence ahead of last month’s Windsor Castle state banquet for President Emmanuel Macron.

Shot by royal photographer Chris Jackson, Anne dazzles in a white lace-trim gown, Festoon tiara, diamond suite, and her Family Orders plus Garter and Thistle stars. 

True to form, the hardest-working royal is skipping fanfare to spotlight her causes. 

Earlier this summer, she hosted 200+ charities at Buckingham Palace to hear challenges and opportunities across the sector.

Those who work with her say the secret to Anne’s impact is steel with wit. 

“She’s incredibly personable… the first to put everyone at ease with a quick one-liner,” says Riding for the Disabled Association CEO Michael Bishop, recalling her determined return to the RDA Championships less than three weeks after a head injury. 

MND Association chief Tanya Curry adds that Anne’s stamina is “amazing,” quipping the Princess “climbed the stairs like a mountain goat” at an event.

Anne had 474 engagements last year and more than 400 patronages, including Save the Children.

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