Princess Royal taken to court over 'dog bite'

The Princess Royal has been ordered to appear in court after her bull terrier allegedly attacked a couple who were out walking.

The Princess, and her husband Commodore Tim Laurence, are being prosecuted under the Dangerous Dogs Act after the incident in Windsor Great Park. It is believed to be the first time a senior member of the Royal Family has been summonsed to appear before a criminal court for something other than speeding, for which the Princess has four convictions.

The Mail on Sunday reported yesterday that the dog attacked the couple in July while being exercised off the lead. It allegedly bit one of them on the leg, but did not cause serious injury.

It is unlikely that the royal couple will attend the preliminary hearing before East Berkshire magistrates on 9 October but they might be ordered to appear at subsequent hearings.

If found guilty, they could face fines of £5,000 each and up to six months' imprisonment. Magistrates can also order the destruction of the animal and have the power to disqualify the Princess and Commodore Laurence from keeping a dog.