Prince Edward makes surprise visit to brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor following arrest

Prince Edward is the first member of the royal family to visit his brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor at Sandringham, following his arrest in February

Prince Edward and the former prince Andrew are brothers

he Duke of Edinburgh has become the first member of the royal family to visit his brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor following his arrest in February.

According to the Sun, Prince Edward, 62, visited Andrew at the Sandringham Estate to have a “quiet word” about finally moving into his permanent home in exile.

The publication reported that Edward was due to stay at nearby Wood Farm – where Andrew is currently staying temporarily – this week, but had to stay in the main house as his brother was reluctant to leave.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in black suit at Duchess of Kent funeral© WireImage
Andrew is reportedly ‘dragging his heels’

Prince Edward regularly books to stay at the royal home over the Easter weekend.

A source told the publication that Edward was meant to be staying at Wood Farm but Andrew is “dragging his heels” about moving to his permanent new home.

Prince Andrew and Prince Edward at Prince Philip's funeral© Pool
Edward has been the first senior royal to visit his brother

A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace declined to comment when approached by HELLO!.

Prince Edward was also the first senior royal to comment on his brother’s recent scandal. When asked at a recent conference in Dubai, Edward said: “I think it’s all really important, always, to remember the victims, and who are the victims in all this.”

Unprecedented Easter

While Prince Edward and his wife, the Duchess of Edinburgh, are carrying out their usual Norfolk break this Easter weekend, the bank holiday will look rather different for the royal family.

Peter Phillips, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Autumn Phillips, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, Princess Eugenie Lady Louise Windsor and Princess Beatrice walking in group© Getty Images
Beatrice and Eugenie usually join their royal family members for Easter celebrations

As well as the absence of not only Andrew and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, but also their royal daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.

HELLO! understands that, with the agreement and understanding of The King, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have made alternative plans for this Easter. However, they are very much part of the family, as seen during their recent appearance at Christmas in Sandringham, and will be seen at future family celebrations.