The State Visit of the President of Germany is about to get under way with many of the details only revealed once this important event starts. However, King Charles might just have dropped a spoiler.
This State Visit, to cement relations between the UK and Germany, has seen hours of practise to make sure everything is perfect. And as the final rehearsals got under way, a rather big clue to one of the set pieces was hinted at.
The final run throughs included the Australian State Coach which was seen riding through Windsor as the military went through their paces one more time before the arrival of President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife, Else Budenbender. Army, Navy and Air Force personnel have put in countless hours of rehearsal to make sure the ceremonial aspects of this visit are perfect.
Their last practises included the Australian State Coach, a big hint that this prestigious carriage will play a major part in the State Visit which will see The King ride in procession with the President of Germany through the streets of Windsor.
Charles III will need more than one carriage for this set piece spectacle as Queen Camilla will accompany Else Budenbender during the procession which is also expected to include the Prince and Princess of Wales.
The Australian State Coach was built in the reign of Queen Elizabeth II who received it as a gift from the people of Australia. It was presented to her in Canberra in 1988 and first used in London during the State Opening of Parliament.
It’s a popular choice for the royals as it has heating as well as hydraulic stabilisers, making it one of the most comfortable of all their carriages.
It’s featured in many major royal events in the last twenty years, being used by William and Kate and their three children during the Coronation of King Charles III. Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis joined their parents in the carriage for the procession to and from Westminster Abbey on the day that King Charles and Queen Camilla were crowned.
Hundreds of troops will take part in the ceremonial welcome for the German President and First Lady.
The State Visit will also seen King Charles and Queen Camilla host the couple for lunch.
The evening will include a glittering State Banquet in St. George’s Hall at Windsor which has already been decorated with a giant Christmas tree and festive garlands.
