Watch the moment Princess Anne visits HMP Leeds - hours after Andrew’s arrest
A video has captured the moment Princess Anne arrived in Leeds for a royal visit, just hours after her brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested.
The Princess Royal was escorted by police to HMP Leeds, in Armley, this afternoon (February 19). She was making the visit in her capacity as Patron of the Butler Trust during a trip to Yorkshire.
Describing the moment the senior member of the royal family arrived, one witness said: “I was walking home, having finished work for the day, when I noticed the road I normally cross near the prison was quiet.
“I walk over the footbridge, look down and realise it's a motorcade travelling to the prison, then realised - Oh.... that's right, Princess Anne's in Leeds.
“There were so many cops just waiting and getting coffee over the road while she was in there and a couple of people hanging out on the footbridge.”
Two black Range Rovers – one believed to contain Anne – arrived at HMP Leeds at 2.30pm. About a dozen staff members from nearby charities stood by the road hoping to catch a glimpse of the royal as she drove onto the site.
Kelly Manton, from the West Yorkshire Community Chaplaincy Project Resettlement Service, said she was “sad” to learn of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest.
She told reporters: “It’s sad in a way it’s come to this, given the stature and everything of the Royal family. He’s a big figure in the UK and in the Royal family.
“It’s just a sad situation and I do feel for the Royal family that this is happening to them.”
Rahima Adam, from the same organisation, said: “It’s disappointing news. I don’t think anyone wants to hear it, so, it’s very sad.”
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is in custody after being arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Searches are being carried out at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk, Thames Valley Police said.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
The King said in a written statement: “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.
“What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities.
“In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation.
“Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.
“As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.
“Charles R.”