The Queen hails key infantry regiment at awards dinner

The Queen has praised The Rifles, one of the British Army’s key infantry regiments, for showcasing their skills “magnificently” in recent years – including at the King’s coronation.

Camilla, who is Colonel-in-Chief of The Rifles, was guest of honour at the regiment’s biennial awards dinner at Guildhall in the City of London along with the unit’s Royal Colonels, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

Speaking about the intervening period since she attended the event in 2021, the Queen told the assembled officers and Riflemen: “The last two years have showcased The Rifles magnificently.

She added: “Much has happened since we last gathered here at the Guildhall – from a full-scale invasion, the largest seen in Europe since the Second World War, through to the first coronation in 70 years.

“I note with pride that Riflemen have boldly remained in the vanguard, doubling towards each of these challenges.”

Two Battalions of The Rifles form part of the celebrated 7th Infantry Brigade, otherwise known as the Desert Rats, with whom Major Shand served.

Camilla got a warm response from her audience when she said about the King’s coronation: “I must say, to see 4,000 soldiers, sailors, and airmen on parade was quite extraordinary, with the three cheers in the garden of Buckingham Palace quite unforgettable.

The event comes amid a row caused by the publication of Omid Scobie’s book on the royal family.

Endgame, penned by journalist Mr Scobie, paints unflattering portraits of several royals – including Queen Camilla.

The Dutch version of the book names two members of the royal family alleged to have raised “concerns” about the skin colour of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s son, Archie.

Mr Scobie has been accused of being behind a “stunt to sell books” and the Dutch edition was subsequently pulled from shelves.