An accommodation row at Sandringham has seen Prince Edward forced to confront his elder brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor over the disgraced royal’s reluctance to vacate temporary lodgings, sources have claimed.
The Duke of Edinburgh, 62, and his wife Sophie were compelled to stay in the main Sandringham house over Easter after discovering Andrew, 66, occupying Wood Farm—the Norfolk property Edward had booked for the break—despite his permanent residence at neighbouring Marsh Farm nearing completion.
A source told the Sun that Edward “has had a quiet word with his brother” regarding the delay, adding: “Andrew has been dragging his heels. He could have moved by now, but has been reluctant.”
The visit marked the first time a royal family member had seen Andrew in two months since his exile from Royal Lodge commenced in February following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office over Jeffrey Epstein connections.
“Edward was meant to be staying at Wood Farm as he regularly books it for Easter, but his brother was there,” the insider stated, noting the Duke had “publicly made his feelings clear when he expressed concern for the victims.”
Security concerns emerged on Thursday when two members of the public pulled up outside Marsh Farm in a red vehicle before scaling the exterior gate and attempting to peer over a newly erected 6ft fence whilst renovation works continue. Andrew’s security detail swiftly intervened, with the pair jumping back into their car and departing.
Andrew was spotted that afternoon meeting Sandringham estate manager Edward Parsons at the property, where builders have been installing luxury carpets, a Sky dish and high-speed broadband connections ahead of his imminent relocation.
The former royal remains at Wood Farm temporarily whilst making frequent inspection visits to monitor Marsh Farm’s renovation progress, despite aides reportedly urging him to cease horse riding activities fearing it creates a “bad look” whilst under police investigation.
Over the weekend, Andrew was photographed inspecting horses near his accommodation—a pastime he regularly enjoyed around Windsor before his Norfolk exile.
Earlier last week, a second-hand £26,000 Willerby Meridian Lodge static caravan arrived at Wood Farm, propped on bricks bearing moss signs. The caravan, funded through “living expenses” money provided by King Charles, will house Andrew’s security detail as insufficient space exists within the main property.
His daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have made “alternative plans” for Easter rather than attending the Royal Family’s traditional Windsor service, though sources stressed the pair remain integral family members who “will be seen” at future celebrations.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are expected to join the King and Queen at Sunday’s service.
