Monarch shares heartfelt memory amid ongoing dispute over royal residence
King Charles III has released a touching video message reflecting on a
cherished childhood memory, marking his first public statement since the Duke
of York, Prince Andrew, and Sarah Ferguson left the Royal Lodge for a brief
stay at Windsor Castle.
The video, shared by Buckingham Palace, is part of the Coronation Girls
documentary, which aired this Christmas in Canada. The documentary highlights
the story of 50 Canadian women who attended Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in
1953 as teenagers.
In the clip, the King recalls his mother’s coronation, saying, “The King
recalls a special childhood memory ahead of his mother’s Coronation in 1953…”
The documentary also captures a heartwarming moment from 2023 when Charles
hosted a surprise tea for twelve of the women at Buckingham Palace during
their visit to London.
The release of this video comes shortly after Andrew and Sarah Ferguson’s
departure from Royal Lodge, which has been a source of tension between the
King and his brother. Charles has urged Andrew to relocate to Frogmore Cottage
due to the high maintenance costs of the Lodge, but the Duke of York has
reportedly resisted the move, citing his attachment to the property.
The Royal Lodge dispute continues against the backdrop of the King’s ongoing
battle with cancer, adding emotional weight to his request for Andrew to
downsize. However, the Duke remains steadfast in his decision, leaving the
future of the residence uncertain.
While the family navigates these challenges, the King’s video message offers a
poignant reminder of the shared history and traditions that bind the royal
family together.
