CEO opens up on 'privilege' of welcoming Princess Anne to glitzy dinner in Scotland

Princess Anne attends the opening of Horatio’s Garden |

GB NEWS

Dorothy Reddin

By Dorothy Reddin


Published: 30/09/2025

- 20:42

The Vine Trust was established in 1985

Princess Anne attended a dinner in Scotland marking the Vine Trust’s 40th anniversary, where the Princess Royal praised the international development charity’s achievements alongside its corporate partner Babcock.

The event took place on Friday, September 26, at Babcock’s Rosyth site. Princess Anne, 75, has served as patron of the Vine Trust for many years and joined the company and charity to celebrate four decades of work delivering healthcare and support in communities with limited access to specialist care.


David Lockwood, CEO of Babcock, said following the event, as per Hello!: “It was a real privilege to welcome Her Royal Highness to Rosyth as Patron of the Vine Trust, where we reflected on the charity’s life-saving achievements.

“Babcock is incredibly proud to continue to strengthen our role in the charity’s vital work. I have seen first-hand the transformative impact of Vine Trust’s mission, making a positive impact in communities where their specialist care is needed most.”

Princess Anne

CEO opens up on 'privilege' of welcoming Princess Anne to glitzy dinner in Scotland

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X / BABCOCK

Mr Lockwood himself joined a Vine Trust expedition to Tanzania earlier in 2025, where the charity continues to expand its healthcare outreach.

Kenny Holt, CEO of the Vine Trust, described the occasion as a chance to look back on four decades of service while also focusing on the future.

He said: “As Vine Trust marks 40 years, we’re proud of what’s been achieved through the compassion and commitment of so many.

“But this is not the end of the journey – it’s a new chapter. Our growing relationship with Babcock is an exciting part of that future, enabling us to expand our impact and continue connecting people to change lives, in communities where the need remains great.”

Princess Anne

The Vine Trust was established in 1985 and is best known for operating medical ships on Lake Victoria and the Amazon River

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X / BABCOCK

The Vine Trust was established in 1985 and is best known for operating medical ships on Lake Victoria and the Amazon River, delivering healthcare to thousands each year.

It also runs building projects to provide accommodation for vulnerable children and families in need.

At the dinner, Princess Anne wore her "Juna" jacket in electric navy from Shibumi, a long, floral-patterned piece she previously wore in 2021, paired with a matching dress.

She accessorised with a midnight blue clutch, pearl drop earrings, a three-row pearl necklace and gloves.

Princess Anne

Princess Anne at the Scottish Parliament last week

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PA

Princess AnnePrincess Anne arriving at King Charles's Coronation | PA

The Princess Royal, who maintains a busy programme of engagements each year, is one of the most active working royals.

Her appearance at Rosyth underlined her long-standing connection to organisations linked to healthcare, sustainable development and young people.

The occasion also highlighted the partnership between the Vine Trust and Babcock, which has enabled the charity to continue growing its projects internationally. Both organisations used the anniversary to reaffirm their commitment to expanding medical outreach and development work in communities where support remains scarce.

The Princess Royal has served as patron of the Vine Trust since 2003 and has supported its efforts both in the UK and overseas.