A new book by royal author Andrew Lownie, Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York, has revealed details about Sarah Ferguson's demanding behaviour towards her staff. According to the book, one of her long-serving personal assistants described life with the Duchess as 'chaotic', with some employees lasting only half a day. 'It was like working with fifty jealous lovers,' the assistant said.
The book claims Ferguson rarely paid for anything, expecting free products and entertainment from friends. She allegedly 'borrowed' security from wealthy acquaintances, lent couture without returning it, and ordered garments without paying. The assistant admitted feeling 'embarrassed' by Ferguson's freebie-grabbing nature.
Staff members reportedly had problems getting paid and often used their own credit cards for purchases. Ferguson allegedly drew on her daughter Princess Beatrice's credit card constantly and paid a psychic in cigarettes. Employees were forced to sign non-disclosure agreements to prevent them from speaking to the press.
The book also details Prince Andrew's reduced circumstances, noting he now has only a skeleton staff at his new home, Marsh Farm on the Sandringham Estate. 'Andrew now had to rely on just a housekeeper, a cook and general aide, alongside a team of police protection officers,' Lownie writes, a stark contrast to his former Royal Lodge home.
