The royal family’s famous show is facing serious calls to overhaul its safety protocols after a heartbreaking loss.
The British monarch, 77, is said to have taken steps to ensure security after the death of a young soldier during a performance by the King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery earlier this month.
Lance bomber Ciara Sullivan, 24, lost her life after falling from her horse on May 15.
Heartbroken Britons have urged authorities to take note of their concerns. They questioned whether traditional ceremonial practices, including the use of historic headgear rather than modern protective helmets, should continue in public displays.
She wore the regiment’s ceremonial hat as part of the full uniform of the King’s Troops.
The insider said: “Organizers need to adopt a smart strategy to save lives.
“We may face the same situation in the future if action is not taken.”
The World War I-era QF 13-pounder field artillery, constructed of steel and wood with large spoked wheels, is pulled at high speed by six horses arranged in three rows.
During performances, riders guide heavy weapons through complex arena maneuvers and tight turns.
“These horse-drawn 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 demonstrations like this,” a source told the daily. Email.
Another said: “The continued wearing of traditional headgear which provides only limited protection needs to be reconsidered in an activity where serious head injury is a constant risk. »
He announced the following morning: “The Royal Windsor Horse Show continues as planned, with the omission of The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery exhibition. »
Following the shocking incident, Chief Superintendent Michael Loebenberg said: “We are appealing to anyone with information or documentation relating to the sad death of a military rider at the Royal Windsor Horse Show yesterday to contact us. »
“At this stage we have not found any suspicious circumstances. We are working with the Ministry of Defence, the Defense Accident Investigation Branch and the organizers of the Royal Windsor Horse Show, HPower, to gather as much information as possible to understand how this happened.”
Buckingham Palace released a statement saying the king was “greatly shocked and saddened” by the tragedy.
The monarch also sent his condolences privately to his family.
