Now his portraits are axed by Army
PRINCE Andrew’s portrait has been taken down by the regiments he once led as colonel in chief, military sources have claimed.
Pictures and paintings of the duke in military finery are said to have been removed from officers’ and sergeants’ messes of the Grenadier Guards, the Royal Irish Regiment, The Royal Highland Fusiliers and the Royal Lancers.
It follows the decision to strip Andrew of his forces titles as he battles the US sex case.
A senior defence chief said: “This is yet more evidence of the Duke’s fall from grace.”
Andrew is no longer toasted at regimental dinners and all links with the units have been axed.
Our source added: “The Duke has been the master of his own downfall. His inability to accept sensible advice has been remarkable and shows a real sense of detachment.”
BEHAVES
Some regiments are also claimed to have signalled they want a future say in which royal becomes the next colonel in chief.
A source said: “This really must be a once-in-a-lifetime event. We want someone who behaves correctly and will stay the course.”
Serving members of the Grenadier Guards received a letter two weeks ago informing them of the changes.
The letter from Lt Gen Roly Walker said: “Buckingham Palace have informed me that the Colonelcy, along with the Duke’s other titles and affiliations, will be reallocated to another member of the Royal Family... there is no timeline for this.”
One member of the Royal Irish Rangers said: “There is enormous relief that the Duke of York is no longer linked to the regiment.
“His association with a proud regiment had become an embarrassment.”
Andrew has strongly denied any wrongdoing.