Prince Andrew is reportedly “having a blast” in his new life in Norfolk, despite facing an ongoing police investigation and legal challenges over search warrants.
The former Duke of York has moved to Marsh Farm, a modest property within the Sandringham Estate, where he was previously believed to be living in exile. The King’s brother was stripped of his titles and honours last year due to his links to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
Arrest and legal action
Andrew was arrested earlier this year on his birthday, February 19, shortly after moving out of Royal Lodge in Windsor, on suspicion of misconduct while in public office. He was released under investigation some 11 hours later. He has always denied any wrongdoing.
He is now taking legal action against Thames Valley Police and the Central Criminal Court, challenging the search warrants that authorised officers to raid his Royal Lodge and Sandringham homes.
‘Having a very nice time’
A report by The Times claims that although Andrew was speculated to be “idling away his days in misery” as he awaited the outcome of the police probe, the reality is very different.
A “well-placed” source told the newspaper: “Don't believe all that poor Andy c**p. He's having a very nice time, thank you very much.
“He goes out, goes shooting with friends, sees his old chums who are very loyal to him. He's not sitting around feeling sorry for himself any more.”
Support from friends and family
Another source commented on Andrew’s legal action against the police, saying: “[He] would have been seething about the indignity of being arrested on his birthday. The idea that it was vindictive.
“There appears to have been a 'something must be done' moment where his lawyers, to appease him, will have said, 'Don't worry, sir, we will handle it'.”
The former duke was visited by the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and a source said “plenty of friends from the old guard” were rallying round for shooting visits to Balmoral. The newspaper also claimed it is understood the former prince meets up with friends in Norfolk “regularly”.
