Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's neighbours all feel the same way about last 24 hours

Feb 20, 2026 - 18:48
Feb 21, 2026 - 04:50
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Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's neighbours all feel the same way about last 24 hours
Andrew Mountbatten Windsor

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's neighbours have shared similar reactions following yesterday's dramatic news of the former royal's arrest. The former Duke of York was taken in by police for questioning on Thursday morning on suspicion of misconduct in public office; he was subsequently released pending further investigation.

Since Andrew's arrest, there has been increased activity surrounding the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, where Andrew relocated after departing Royal Lodge on the Windsor estate.

Hundreds of members of the public and journalists have descended upon the vicinity around Sandringham. Local residents, already familiar with royal sightings nearby, expressed frustration – though for different reasons.

"Residents, used to seeing the royal family, were fed up by the news that Andrew had been arrested," wrote The Times' Lara Wildenberg, Jessica Sharkey and Bill Curtis. "Younger ones because it felt like too little too late; older ones because they felt it was a 'witch-hunt'."

Members of the media stake out an entrance to Wood Farm on the royal family's Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, eastern England on February 20, 2026, a day after Britain's former prince Andrew was arrested. Britain's royal family was thrown into crisis on February 19 after former prince Andrew was arrested by police and held for hours, in a blow to the monarchy unprecedented in modern British history. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP via Getty Images)

Window company owner Luke Schrier, 47, remarked to the publication: "If we went back 200 years ago, he'd have been beheaded. It's an embarrassment to England because this is going to be worldwide."

Meanwhile, bricklayer Jamie Jackson, 31, emphasised local perspectives regarding the Royal Family: "My mum and my nan all follow [the royals] - anyone my age doesn't care. I don't know anyone that supports him round here."

Other locals voiced a more general view on the Royal Family and the situation at large, expressing sympathy for the family. One individual commented that it was unfortunate, but simultaneously fortunate that the late Queen wasn't present.

Another local, a retired teacher who wished to remain anonymous, stated that the community held strong loyalty towards the Royal Family.

Unmarked police vehicles were seen arriving at the Royal Lodge, Andrew's former home, on Friday morning.

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright released a statement regarding the investigation on Thursday, he said: "Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.

"It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence."

Andrew has consistently denied any impropriety relating to Epstein.

King Charles III

In response to his younger brother's arrest, King Charles, 77, issued a statement on the matter on Thursday.

He said: "I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.

"What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities."

The King further added: "In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.

"As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all. Charles R."

Thames Valley Police issued a statement on Thursday evening updating the public on their investigation.

They said: "Thames Valley Police is able to provide an update in relation to an investigation into the offence of misconduct in public office.

"On Thursday we arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

"The arrested man has now been released under investigation. We can also confirm that our searches in Norfolk have now concluded."

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