The formal procedure to strip the 65-year-old of his remaining royal titles has commenced, leading to him being recognized as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor.

“Going forward, Prince Andrew will be referred to as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor.

“Previously, his lease at Royal Lodge granted him legal protection to reside there.

“He has now been formally notified to relinquish the lease and will relocate to alternative private quarters. These actions are considered necessary, despite his ongoing denial of the allegations against him.

“Their Majesties emphasize that their heartfelt thoughts and deepest sympathies are, and will continue to be, with victims and survivors of all forms of abuse.”

Andrew’s new residence will be among the properties at Sandringham, the Norfolk estate where the royal family typically gathers to celebrate Christmas.

His future accommodation will be privately funded by King Charles, it is understood.

There had been speculation this week that he would move into Frogmore Cottage, in Windsor, but today’s decision puts Andrew further away from the centre of royal life.

This is a breaking story, more to come.