Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor reportedly encouraged Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie to attend the Royal Family’s annual Christmas gathering so they could provide him with insights on the event. Following the removal of his remaining titles and subsequent banishment to Sandringham by King Charles III last year, Andrew spent his previous Christmas at Royal Lodge. However, this year, his daughters, who are still active members of the Royal family’s inner circle, were spotted at the sprawling Norfolk estate with their families, attending the traditional Christmas mass at St Mary Magdalene church.
According to a royal expert, Andrew insisted that the sisters attend the event to gather information on public sentiment towards him. Ingrid Seward, a seasoned royal author, suggested that Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie had little choice in the matter, as Andrew made it clear that their presence was necessary for his connection to the Royal Family. Former Sun royal correspondent Charles Rae echoed this sentiment, speculating that Andrew would eagerly seek feedback upon their return from Sandringham.
Both Andrew and Ms. Ferguson did not participate in the Sandringham gathering last year, marking a continued absence from royal events. Andrew Lownie, a royal author, emphasized that Andrew’s exclusion from the royal circle was definitive, highlighting his transition to a commoner status. Despite the tarnishing of their reputations due to past controversies, there is still hope for Ms. Ferguson’s image revival, as she has shown a talent for reinvention.
Looking ahead, if the couple remains excluded from royal events, they will be residing in a new property within the Sandringham estate.