King Charles Bestows Prestigious Honour on Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's Former Staffer
King Charles has granted a special honour to Dame Charlotte Manley, the former Private Secretary and Treasurer to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The 68-year-old was honoured in Tuesday's investitures ceremony at Windsor Castle, where she was made a Dame Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (DCVO) by the monarch.
Background and Service to the Royal Family
Dame Charlotte Manley served as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's assistant from 1996 and held the role of his Private Secretary and Treasurer between 2001 and 2003, accompanying him on trips abroad. Before joining the royal family, she served as an officer in the Royal Navy from 1976 to 1996. Her previous honours include being appointed an OBE in 1996 and made Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) in 2018, awards recognising personal service to the royal family.
Honour Amid Ongoing Police Investigation
The honour comes just weeks after Dame Manley agreed to assist Thames Valley Police with their investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who was arrested in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Documents released in the Epstein files suggested the former prince may have shared confidential information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his time as trade envoy to the UK, though Andrew has vigorously denied any wrongdoing.
In a statement to the Times, Dame Manley said, "I would rather talk to the police than the press, not that I would have much to tell them." She retired last year from her position as chapter clerk of St George's Chapel, Windsor, a role she held since 2003.
Details of the Honour and Other Recipients
Dame Commander is the second-highest rank in the Royal Victorian Order, granting the right to use the title "Dame." Dame Manley was listed on King Charles's New Year's Honours List for 2026. Other recipients honoured on Tuesday include actress Carey Mulligan and former Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's Current Situation
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on his 66th birthday in February and spent 11 hours in custody at Aylsham Police Station in Norfolk before being released. Since then, he has been residing at his temporary home, Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate, while his permanent lodgings at Marsh Farm undergo renovations. He has been seen only a handful of times on the estate since the arrest.
Dame Charlotte Manley was also part of the party that welcomed President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump to Windsor for a state visit in 2025, highlighting her continued involvement in royal duties. The honour from King Charles underscores her long-standing service, even as she cooperates with authorities in a sensitive investigation.
