Prince Andrew has kicked off repairs at Royal Lodge, with a source disclosing that the Duke of York is eager to cling to his residence as a "status symbol".Work seems to be underway at the Windsor estate, as scaffolding and skips have been seen on site, suggesting that the disgraced royal has started the costly repairs, believed to be setting him back £20,000.Despite the hefty costs associated with maintaining Royal Lodge and lacking a formal income, the duke is apparently undeterred, as an insider revealed that it's not about the finances for Andrew.The insider told the Express: "Andrew is determined to hold onto Royal Lodge at any cost.
He will find the money from somewhere. "For him, it's a status symbol, the last vestige of Royal prestige he's got. The only way he's leaving is in a box", reports the Express.
Royal staff have cheekily nicknamed Royal Lodge 'The Money Pit', echoing the title of the 1986 comedy film starring Tom Hanks, which centres on a couple sinking funds into a dilapidated house.Since taking up residence in 2003, Andrew has poured substantial sums into the property's upkeep, including the current painting work priced at around £20,000.In the previous year, the Duke is said to have shelled out £200,000 for roof repairs, which was reportedly just an "interim payment", and he must continue to cover these expenses to retain his lease.Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in!
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