King Charles’ former royal butler opened up about the monarch’s special bond with his niece Princess Beatrice, following her latest announcement
King Charles’ former Royal butler has opened up about the monarch’s strong bond with his niece Princess Beatrice, following the announcement of her new role. The 37-year-old is the eldest of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor’s two daughters with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson.
Last month, Buckingham Palace confirmed that the 65-year-old will no longer use his Prince title and dukedom, amid ongoing controversy surrounding his association with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Furthermore, he will vacate his Royal Lodge residence in Windsor and is reportedly set to relocate to a property on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, England next year.
“His lease on Royal Lodge has, to date, provided him with legal protection to continue in residence,” a statement from the Palace revealed. “Formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease and he will move to alternative private accommodation.”
While Charles’ relationship with his brother has grown tense, this doesn’t extend to Andrew’s daughters, according to Grant Harrold.
The Royal butler, who served the King between 2007 and 2011, claims the monarch maintains a “very close” relationship with his niece Beatrice.
His comments follow Charles appointing the mother-of-two as the new Deputy Patron of The Outward Bound Trust, after her lengthy service as a trustee.
Grant said of the monarch’s bond with his niece: “I’m not surprised by this as despite what’s happening with her father, the charities and organisations she works with still value the support of the young princess.
“She’s done brilliant work with the causes, highlighting their work and bringing a spotlight they otherwise wouldn’t be able to get. They won’t want to cut ties because of her father’s actions.”
The Royal butler continued by saying Princess Beatrice “is still a much loved member of the Royal Family”, adding: “She’s very close to her uncle, King Charles, and her cousin Prince William.
“They will want to support and encourage her to continue her work during this difficult time.”
Beatrice’s new position comes six years after her father stood down as Royal Patron of the trust, following claims against him that he’s strongly denied.
Beatrice will carry out the responsibilities alongside her uncle, Prince Edward, who takes over as the Royal Patron.
Together, they will maintain the work previously overseen by the now late Prince Philip, who backed the organisation for many years until his death.
Outward Bound CEO Martin Davidson said in a statement: “With The Duke of Edinburgh and Princess Beatrice working alongside us, we’re embarking on a new chapter.
“One where every young person has the chance to test their limits, build confidence and discover that anything is possible. Their support reflects a shared belief that adventure changes lives.”
