EXCLUSIVE: The former royal butler to King Charles provided a rare insight into the monarch’s close relationship with his niece, Princess Beatrice, after her new role was announced

King Charles with his niece Princess Beatrice (Image: GETTY)

King Charles’ former royal butler has spoken about the monarch’s close relationship with his niece Princess Beatrice, following the announcement of her new role. The latter is the eldest of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor’s two daughters with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson.

Buckingham Palace announced last month that the 65-year-old will no longer be using his Prince title and dukedom, due to the continued controversy over his friendship with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Additionally, he will lose his Royal Lodge home in Windsor and is expected to move into a house 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 read. “Formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease and he will move to alternative private accommodation.”
Andrew Mountbatten Windsor with his two daughters (Image: GETTY)

While Charles’ relationship with his brother has become strained, this isn’t the case for Andrew’s daughters, according to Grant Harrold.

The royal butler, who worked for the King from 2007 to 2011, says the monarch remains “very close” to his niece Princess Beatrice.

His thoughts come after Charles gave the 37-year-old a new special role as Deputy Patron of The Outward Bound Trust, following her many years 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.”

Princess Beatrice has taken on a new role (Image: Getty)

The royal butler went on to say that 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 role comes six years after her father stepped down as Royal Patron of the trust, following allegations against him that he’s vehemently denied.

Beatrice will fulfil the duties alongside her uncle, Prince Edward, who acts as the Royal Patron.

Together, they will continue the work once led by the now late Prince Philip, who supported the organisation for many years up 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.”