Prince Andrew breaks cover just days before King Charles axes his private security team
GB News
Prince Andrew was spotted in Windsor on Saturday, pausing to chat with dog walkers during his morning ride.
The Duke of York, 64, drove through the grounds of Windsor Castle, smiling at members of the public from his car window.
This appearance comes just days before the prince is reportedly set to lose access to his privately-funded security team.
Sources say King Charles no longer wishes to foot the bill for his brother's protection, which currently consists of a ten-strong team.
King Charles' decision to stop funding Andrew's security is reportedly set to take effect from November.
According to The Sun on Sunday, members of the prince's security team have been informed their services will no longer be needed starting next month.
This move could be part of a tactical strategy by the King to force Andrew out of Royal Lodge, his current residence.
The Duke of York lost his publicly-funded protection in 2019 when he stepped down as a working royal.
Since then, the late Queen privately paid for his security, an arrangement that continued after her death in 2022. However, King Charles now appears to be changing this arrangement.
Prince Andrew currently resides at Royal Lodge, a £30million property on the grounds of Windsor Castle with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson.
The Duke signed a 75-year lease with the Crown Estate when he moved into Royal Lodge in 2003.
This agreement included an initial payment of £1million and a notional annual rent of £260,000.
King Charles reportedly wishes for Andrew to move to the more modest Frogmore Cottage, a five-bedroom property on the Windsor estate.
PAThe long-term nature of this lease arrangement adds complexity to any potential plans to relocate the Duke.
King Charles reportedly wishes for Andrew to move to the more modest Frogmore Cottage, a five-bedroom property on the Windsor estate.
This residence was previously occupied by Prince Harry and Meghan before their departure from the UK.
The proposed relocation from Royal Lodge to Frogmore Cottage would represent a significant downsizing for the Duke of York.