The famous royal family show is facing serious calls for a review of its safety protocols after a heartbreaking loss.
The British monarch, 77, has reportedly taken steps to ensure security measures following the death of a young soldier during a performance by the King’s Troop and Royal Horse Artillery earlier this month.
Lance Bombardier Ciara Sullivan, 24, lost her life after falling from her horse on May 15.
Heartbroken Britons urged officials to take note of their concerns. They questioned whether traditional ceremonial practices, including the wearing of historic hats instead of modern protective helmets, should continue in public displays.
He wore the regiment’s ceremonial hat as part of the King’s Troop dress uniform.
The insider said: “The organizers must 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 13-pounder QF 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 the heavy weaponry through complex sand maneuvers and tight turns.
“These carriages were invented centuries ago, before modern safety measures were adopted. They are not fit for purpose, nor are the hats. There should be a serious review of horse shows like this,” a source told the Mail.
Another said: “The continued use of traditional headgear that offers only limited protection should be reviewed in an activity where serious head injuries are an ever-present 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 display.”
Following the shocking incident, Chief Superintendent Michael Loebenberg said: “We are appealing to anyone with information or material relating to the sad death of a military rider at the Royal Windsor Horse Show yesterday to get in touch.”
“At this stage, we have not found any suspicious circumstances. We are working with the Ministry of Defence, the Defense Accident Investigation Division and the organizers of the Royal Windsor Horse Show, HPower, to gather as much information as possible to understand how this happened.”
Buckingham Palace issued a statement saying the king was “very shocked and saddened” by the tragedy.
The monarch also privately conveyed his condolences to his family.
