King Charles security under urgent review over protest fears

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published 23 December 2022

King Charles III's security is being reviewed ahead of Christmas Day with officials concerned that the traditional Christmas walkabout may be hit with protests.

King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla will greet well-wishers on Christmas Day in Sandringham, but there are fears there may be protests after recent events.
A source has now revealed that they will be ramping up royal security on the day.
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Royal security chiefs have ordered a review of the King’s safety ahead of his traditional Christmas walkabout, in which the monarch will greet well-wishers at Sandringham.

The careful move comes after a string of incidents recently, including eggs being hurled at King Charles and public protests. Last year on Christmas Day, a man allegedly got into Windsor Castle with a loaded crossbow.

A source revealed, "This isn’t just about individuals with eggs, everyone is extremely aware it could be far worse. A full-scale review is in place to make sure the right evacuation procedures are in place."

They added that police chiefs are “concerned” at the possibility of further disturbances.

As King Charles looks ahead to a bittersweet festive period, with fewer guests around the dinner table, the police’s Royal and VIP Executive Committee, responsible for security, are said to have met up to re-evaluate plans to evacuate the King and Camilla if they are targeted again in public.

And Buckingham Palace officials are also reported to have held emergency talks.

Former Met Police chief superintendent and head of the royal protection unit Dai Davies said, “We must defend the right to peaceful protest, but all officers and their superiors must have a razor-sharp focus in the wake of this increase in disturbance."

“There is no magic solution to this pattern of attacks or protests, but intelligence and exit strategies are the most important factor."

"The egg incidents show the vulnerability of the royals. The key is to make sure these incidents do not spiral."

Back in September, a protester confronted the King over the cost of the monarchy during a visit to Cardiff. He shouted, “Charles, while we struggle to heat our homes we have to pay for your parade. The taxpayer pays £100million for you, and for what?”

King Charles' Christmas plans at Sandringham are expected to be different than the Royal Family's festive celebrations when Queen Elizabeth was the monarch.

Expert Jenny Bond told OK! , "It will be full of nostalgia and some good measure of sadness. There’s going to be that empty place where the Queen sat. I presume Charles will not sit there.”

Although many things are markedly different, Jenny added, "It will have all the usual traditions of a Sandringham gathering. The family will gather but they’ll be lacking their matriarch. It’s always a sad time when you have your first Christmas without the main person."

Robyn is a celebrity and entertainment journalist and editor with over eight years experience in the industry. As well as contributing regular to woman&home, she also often writes for Woman, Woman's Own, Woman's Weekly and The Sun.