Before this morning’s events get under way, it’s perhaps worth reminding all of us what exactly Trooping the Colour – an event that’s been taking place for over 260 years – is all about.
Though King Charles’ actual date of birth is 14 November, this military parade has long been used to mark the official
birthday of the British Sovereign.
Today, we can expect more than 1,4000 soldiers and 200 horses to take part in a military parade and inspection, as
well as music and pageantry.
Following his cancer diagnosis, the King will instead be
in a carriage this year rather than on horseback like he was in 2023 – both during the procession and when he
inspects the troops.
During the parade a regimental flag is “trooped”
through the ranks of soldiers, with this being rotated among the five regiments
of Foot Guards.
The Irish Guards, a regiment the Princess of Wales represents as
Colonel, will take the lead this year and those attending will be able to hear some Irish music during the parade.
A gun salute will be fired in Green Park and we can also
look forward to a RAF flypast later in the day.
