Security concerns were raised outside the new permanent home of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor on Thursday after a man and a girl were seen climbing the property's exterior fence. The incident occurred at Marsh Farm, located on the King's Sandringham estate in Norfolk, where the former prince is preparing to relocate in the coming weeks.
Intrusion Attempt at Marsh Farm
Andrew was inspecting the ongoing renovation works at his future residence when a red car pulled up outside the premises. Two individuals exited the vehicle and proceeded to scale the exterior gate. They then attempted to peer over a newly installed six-foot fence that stands in front of the farmhouse.
Photographs from the scene show the man and girl standing on top of the gate, trying to catch a glimpse inside the property. However, their efforts were short-lived as Andrew's security team reacted promptly to defuse the situation. The pair quickly jumped back into their car and drove away without further incident.
Andrew's Activities at the Property
The former prince appeared to spend the afternoon at Marsh Farm, where he was seen meeting with Sandringham estate manager Edward Parsons. Andrew is currently residing at nearby Wood Farm while renovations are completed at his new home, but he has made several visits this week to monitor progress.
Builders have been working intensively to prepare the property for Andrew's arrival. Recent upgrades include the installation of luxury carpets, a Sky television dish, and a fast broadband connection. The renovation aims to make the farmhouse comfortable for its future occupant.
Recent Sightings and Easter Plans
Andrew was spotted visiting the property just one day earlier, driving his Range Rover while wearing a maroon cable-knit jumper. His security guard accompanied him in the passenger seat during this outing. The disgraced former Duke, who has faced allegations of leaking secrets to Jeffrey Epstein, is expected to remain in Norfolk over the Easter period.
He will not attend the Royal Family's traditional Easter service at Windsor this year. Instead, Andrew has been maintaining a low profile in Norfolk since his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in a public office on February 19, which coincided with his 66th birthday.
Continued Activities Despite Investigation
Over the weekend, Andrew was observed inspecting horses near his home, despite reports that aides had urged him to stop riding. Concerns were raised that it would present a "bad look" for him to be seen enjoying leisure activities while under police investigation for misconduct in public office.
Before moving to Sandringham several weeks ago, Andrew was regularly seen horse riding around Windsor. In a recent development, a second-hand static caravan was delivered to his current residence. The £26,000 Willerby Meridian Lodge, which shows signs of moss, has been placed on bricks in his garden.
This caravan was purchased using funds provided by his brother, King Charles, for "living expenses." It will serve as accommodation for Andrew's security detail, as there is insufficient space in his main Norfolk home.
Family Dynamics and Easter Arrangements
While the investigation into Andrew continues, his daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are understood to have made "alternative plans" for Easter. Their absence from the Royal Family's Easter lineup comes despite sources emphasizing that both princesses remain integral members of the family and will "be seen" at future celebrations.
The Royal Family's Easter Sunday service typically includes only members of The Firm and their engaged or married partners. This year, the Prince and Princess of Wales are expected to join the King and Queen in Windsor on Sunday, much to the delight of royal fans who were disappointed by their previous absences.
