Exactly how Prince Andrew has been able to stay in Royal Lodge by securing 'cheaper rate'

Prince Andrew has been staying at the Royal Lodge for over two decades, but questions have arisen about how he can afford it.

Despite growing pressure from to vacate Royal Lodge, the Duke of York has reportedly managed to remain at the sprawling Windsor estate by independently financing his security at a reduced cost. His ex-wife Sarah Ferguson also resides there.

Prince Andrew lost his £3 million annual grant for personal protection earlier this year, but he has managed to negotiate a more affordable deal for his guards, according to The Sun on Sunday.

The arrangement allows Andrew to stay in the 30-room property he has called home for over two decades, though questions linger about how long he can sustain the setup.

A source close to the matter revealed: "He has his security but at a cheaper rate, and he is managing to finance it himself."

The source added: "He has dug his heels in and is refusing to move, so he found a way to fund his security. How sustainable this is long-term remains to be seen."

This development comes as King Charles continues efforts to slim down the monarchy and reduce costs, which include urging Andrew to downsize to Frogmore Cottage, the smaller Windsor property vacated by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle earlier this year.

However, Andrew's refusal to leave Royal Lodge has heightened tensions between the brothers, with reports describing their relationship as having descended into "outright hostility."

It comes as his daughter Princess Beatrice has been tipped for an "unofficial" royal role as an ambassador to the UK in the Middle East after meeting with high profile business leaders in the Gulf.

The battle over Royal Lodge is a part of deeper feuds within the royal family.

Prince Andrew's insistence on staying at the property is seen as a direct challenge to King Charles' authority as king.

The Duke has been entangled in multiple controversies, including his connections with Jeffrey Epstein.

A royal source said: "Andrew is determined to stay put, but how he continues to fund his lifestyle without official royal support is unclear. This isn't a sustainable situation."