The Duke of York, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, is facing a period of significant personal turmoil, described as being 'isolated, depressed and solitary' following the removal of his royal titles.
A Solitary Figure on the Windsor Estate
The former prince recently emerged for his first public outing, photographed horse riding on the Windsor estate. This appearance comes as he continues to be associated with the late paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.
This rare public sighting has reportedly caused concern within the Royal Family. According to former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond, the Prince and Princess of Wales, who now live nearby at Forest Lodge, may have mixed feelings about their neighbour's activities.
Jennie Bond stated: "While there is no love lost between William, Catherine and Andrew, my understanding is that they, and the rest of the Royal Family believe they still have a duty of care for his welfare and mental health."
Royal Displeasure and a Forced Move
The situation is further complicated by Andrew's impending relocation. He is set to leave his long-term home, Royal Lodge, where he has lived for over two decades. His new residence will be a smaller property on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk.
Bond suggested that King Charles is less than pleased with the recent photographs. "I think the King will feel it’s unfortunate that pictures of Andrew are in the press again, drawing attention away from the work the rest of the family are doing," she said.
She added that the King would likely prefer to see Andrew engaged in charitable work rather than "idly amusing himself," but acknowledged his current toxic reputation makes any such association impossible for organisations.
A 'Not Good Look' for the Monarchy
A royal source echoed these sentiments to the Daily Mail, emphasising that the sight of Andrew riding in the taxpayer-funded Windsor Castle grounds is "really not a good look."
The source confirmed: "The King won't be happy that his brother has been photographed riding in the grounds of Windsor Castle, which after all is funded by the taxpayer."
Despite the apparent displeasure, there remains a familial sense of obligation. Bond concluded that William and Catherine would not begrudge Andrew some fresh air, noting that his move to Sandringham would soon make the proximity a non-issue.
