Friends of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Sarah Ferguson say the former Duke and Duchess of York are in a fragile state as the deadline to leave Royal Lodge draws closer. The pair are said to have become increasingly isolated following revelations about their links to Jeffrey Epstein, which led to Andrew being stripped of his royal titles and honours. According to reports, they have had no contact with either the King or the Prince of Wales.
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It is understood that Andrew and Sarah will vacate Royal Lodge before Andrew’s 65th birthday on 17 February. Relations within the family also appear strained, with Princess Eugenie reportedly cutting off contact with her father after he failed to apologise to Epstein’s victims. Andrew is said to be deeply upset by the estrangement and did not see his younger daughter over Christmas. Eugenie, who now lives in Portugal, has since co-founded The Anti-Slavery Collective, an organisation focused on tackling sex trafficking.
Reports suggest Andrew has begun preparations for his next move, having made a discreet visit to Marsh Farm on the Sandringham estate to inspect renovation works at the five-bedroom property. An insider claimed he may stay temporarily at Sandringham House until the work is completed. Staff at Royal Lodge, including household and gardening employees, are reportedly being made redundant on generous terms, with suggestions that a smaller team will be employed once Andrew relocates.
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Andrew was seen leaving Royal Lodge in a Range Rover on Tuesday morning and arriving in Sandringham shortly after midday. Local residents reported seeing several vehicles travelling between Wood Farm and Marsh Farm, while builders have been observed working at the property. Sky television equipment was also installed last week, indicating that preparations for the move are well under way.
