Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor makes first public appearance since arrest at Sandringham event
Disgraced Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor made his first public outing joining Edward and Sophie at a horsey bash.
The shamed former Duke of York broke cover to attend the Sandringham Horse Driving Trials on the King’s estate.
He was spotted driving his Land Rover Defender away from the annual event where sister-in-law Sophie competed on Sunday.
Onlookers said he kept a low profile as the Duchess of Edinburgh competed in the morning but was spotted leaving moments after she finished.
It is believed he joined the crowds in the sunshine to give her moral support.
It is thought he watched the competition away from the main arena in a secluded area under the cover of trees.
Edward, who was seen dressed casually wearing an open-necked polo shirt as he cheered on Sophie, also left soon after Andrew.
One onlooker said: “Andrew sneaked in and sneaked out and definitely didn’t want to be seen.
“But I saw Andrew leave the field at 10.30am, just after Sophie had ridden her round, then I saw Edward walking towards his car smiling shortly afterwards.”
Sophie, 61, who was wearing a long cream jacket, navy blue flowery skirt and a straw boater, stayed for the afternoon.
She was later seen handing out prizes to eventual winners.
The Duchess took part in the SanDrivingHam Challenge, which aims to showcase the skill of the driver, groom, and passengers.
It has four sections. Section one is a “Stand Show,” where the judge inspects the overall cleanliness, suitability of the vehicle and horse, the fitting of the harness, and the overall impression, including the coachman, passengers, and groom.
In section two they have to do a figure of eight followed by a set route drive.
Sophie and Edward are thought to have been staying at King Charles’ Wood Farm residence, next door to Andrew’s house, whilst the three-day competition was taking place.
Their daughter Lady Louise usually competes in the event, but did not attend.
The Sandringham trials were started in 1982 by Prince Philip, who wanted to bring one of his favourite sports to one of his favourite places and it always takes place over the weekend after Royal Ascot.
The shamed former Prince Andrew moved from Royal Lodge in February to begin exile in Sandringham after he was evicted amid the worsening Jeffrey Epstein scandal.
Days later Andy, 66, was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in a public office.
He has been banned from horse riding on the King’s estate and rarely been seen since his eviction earlier this year.
Earlier this month he was spotted with a bruise on his face but the blemish is understood to be caused by medication such as blood thinners rather than a fall, assault or accident.
Claims that Andrew secretly took a private jet to France and hosted by UAE billionaire are untrue, it is understood.
Edward became the first royal to see his accused sibling when he visited over the Easter weekend.
Charles, 77, has stayed at Sandringham several times since his disgraced sibling’s arrest in February but is not believed to have visited him.
Neither daughter Beatrice or Eugenie are known to have visited Andy’s exile at Marsh Farm which has been extensively renovated.
While ex-wife Sarah Ferguson was tracked down by The Sun staying a luxury spa in Austria.
The events on Sunday also featured the National Horse Driving Trials Cones, Scurry and Trials Driving and a Gateway Competition.
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