It's no secret that the Queen loves Windsor Castle, and now it looks as though she could be spending more time there as her work commitments are gradually scaled back. News that two of her closest aides have relocated from London to Windsor suggests that the 80-year-old monarch could be heading for semi-retirement.
The monarch, who has been suffering from back pain recently, has apparently been urged by her 85-year-old husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, to move out of the capital and decrease her workload.
Windsor Castle, which dates back to the time of William the Conqueror, suits Her Majesty's love of the outdoors, while - according to The Mail On Sunday - senior aides are reportedly discussing the possibility of moving certain honour ceremonies there.
The move of two of her closest courtiers, who have been granted grace-and-favour homes in the historic town, has been interpreted as the Queen looking to spend less time in London. Trusted personal assistant Angela Kelly, 54, who brings the monarch her cup of tea in the morning, switched from her apartment in Marlborough House on the Mall to a home in Windsor Great Park in early November. Also relocating is Paul Whybrew, the Queen's 49-year-old page.
Although the residential shuffle could indicate the Queen is heading for a three-day working week, with Charles taking on more responsibilities, Buckingham Palace maintains the two aides have moved out of London for personal reasons. "There are no plans to handle investitures at Windsor - the Palace is very convenient for transport links," said a spokesman. "The Prince already takes a third of the ceremonies every year. There are no plans to move the private office to Windsor," he added.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
