Kate Middleton has a major role change ahead of King Charles’ official birthday – and it’s not traditional
THIS weekend history will be made as King Charles celebrates his first Trooping the Colour birthday parade.
However, the royal event is set to be even more poignant this year, as the Princess of Wales will undertake a new role at the celebrations.
Last year, Kate Middleton was given the military title of Colonel of the Irish Guards, which was previously held by her husband Prince William.
She has already taken part in colonel duties this year, including commemorating the Irish Guards’ St Patrick’s Day parade.
Typically colonels at Trooping the Colour take part on horseback and wear full military uniform – and we’ve seen Prince William and Princess Anne do this in the past.
However, Kate is not expected to follow suit, and isn’t expected to wear military uniform on Saturday, according to the Mail.
Royal fans can look forward to seeing King Charles joining the first birthday parade of his reign on horseback.
This is significant as it marks the first time in more than 30 years that a monarch has ridden a horse at Trooping the Colour.
The last time a monarch rode in the parade was when Queen Elizabeth II went on horseback in 1986.
Prince William will also ride on horseback, while Kate will travel to the Horse Guards Parade in a carriage.
Last weekend, the Prince of Wales joined brave troops during the final rehearsal ahead of Trooping the Colour.
The Prince of Wales has praised troops for doing a ”really good job” ahead of the grand ceremony next week, despite the difficult conditions and soaring temperatures.
Trooping the Colour is an annual event that dates back to Charles II in the 17th century when regiment colours trooped in front of soldiers so they could recognise their unit in battle.
Traditionally over 1,400 parading soldiers, 400 musicians and 200 horses take part in the extravaganza.
The procession will travel from Buckingham Palace, down The Mall to the Horse Guards Parade.
There will also be a Royal Air Force fly-past.
The appearance of the Royal family on the Palace balcony has become an anticipated event in the royal calendar.
The first recorded royal balcony appearance was made by Queen Victoria in 1851, during the opening celebrations of the Great Exhibition.
And it’s since become an established tradition and a rare opportunity to see the Royal Family together in one place.