The Braemar Gathering is held on the first Saturday of September every year. Since Queen Victoria's reign, the reigning Monarch has attended the Gathering during their annual holiday at Balmoral Castle (8 miles away).
This is the Royal Box where the Queen sits when she attends the Gathering, along with other members of the Royal family. This year she was accompanied by The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Charles and Princess Anne. It's a big event in the Braemar Calendar and everyone is excited to see which members of the family will attend - it's always kept confidential to the public until the cars arrive at the Gathering. A very simple box, which is always decorated for Her visit, with heather and pine tree branches.
In 1966, as a little girl, resident in the village and a highland dancing competitor, I presented a bouquet of white heather to Princess Anne at the event - a very proud moment.
How interesting, this Royal Box and the highly anticipated arrival of its royal guests. That the long-held tradition of decorating the seating area is still continued this day and age is just wonderful. And that you once presented a bouquet of flowers to Princess Anne ... that's right out of a fairytale!!
