Sandringham Locals Criticise Prince Andrew's Move Amid Epstein Fallout
The relocation of Prince Andrew from his Windsor mansion to the King's Sandringham Estate has been met with a distinctly frosty reception from local residents, who have voiced concerns about media intrusion and the suitability of the location for the controversial royal figure.
Media Frenzy Disrupts Tranquil Village
On Wednesday, the usually peaceful lane in Wolferton, near St Peter's Church, was transformed into a hub of media activity as press photographers and television crews converged near the entrance to Wood Farm Cottage, where Andrew is reportedly staying temporarily. The scene was further disrupted by parked cars lining the narrow road and a helicopter hovering overhead, creating an atmosphere far removed from the village's typical tranquillity.
One anonymous woman from Wolferton expressed her dismay at the situation, stating that she believed it was the wrong location for Andrew to move to. She suggested that a more secluded property, perhaps one surrounded by trees and distant from other houses, would have been a better choice to avoid causing bother to villagers. She specifically noted that Andrew's new property in Wolferton is "too close to the road" and that "you're always going to have reporters" as a result.
Public Sentiment at Sandringham Visitor Centre
Around two miles away at the Sandringham Visitor Centre, members of the public shared similarly critical views. Abraham Bruin, an 83-year-old from West Walton, expressed his bewilderment, remarking, "If he's an outcast and living on the estate, he's not an outcast is he." This sentiment highlights the perceived contradiction in Andrew's situation, where his move to a royal estate seems at odds with his diminished public standing.
Other visitors, who also chose to remain anonymous, were blunt in their assessments. One woman commented, "Really he's going back to luxury, isn't he? He's being waited on hand and foot," while another stated, "I'm not particularly keen on him. I'm not happy he's this way." A third woman encapsulated the frustration of some locals with the pointed remark, "They're dumping their royal rubbish on us."
Reluctance to Speak and Practical Arrangements
Many villagers were hesitant to comment publicly, with some indicating they could not speak due to their employment with the royal estate. This reluctance underscores the sensitive nature of the situation within the community.
It is understood that Marsh Farm, Andrew's intended permanent new home nearby, is not yet fully prepared, with his permanent move anticipated by the beginning of April. Andrew still holds the lease for his Windsor property until October, but he has made the substantive part of his relocation. However, the move may take several weeks to complete, and the former prince is likely to be seen occasionally at Royal Lodge during this transitional period.
The overall reaction from locals and visitors alike suggests a deep-seated unease with Andrew's presence in the area, fuelled by the ongoing Epstein controversy and the disruption caused by increased media attention. The situation continues to evolve as Andrew settles into his new surroundings under the watchful eyes of both the press and a sceptical public.
