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In the course of a public appearance to Lichfield Cathedral on Monday, the King was heckled by a man who asked him about his brother's links with disgraced financier Epstein.

The protester demanded to know how long the King had been aware about his sibling's relationship with Epstein, and also questioned whether he had instructed the authorities to "hide" for Andrew.

Despite the protest, there were throngs of fans and cheers for the King, who was visiting Staffordshire for an engagement.

Prince Andrew's associations with Jeffrey Epstein have been under renewed focus in recent weeks. The prince, who gave up his royal duties earlier this month, has categorically denied any wrongdoing.

"For how long have you been aware about Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein? Have you asked the authorities to cover up for Andrew?"

The monarch ignored the questions but carried on meeting fans, some of whom chanted "Long live the King". One fan can be overheard requesting him for a hug.

Another woman outside the cathedral was also heard telling the heckler to "leave" and to "shut up".

Scandal Reignited by Memoir

The scandal over the Duke of York's links to Jeffrey Epstein has been reignited by sexual abuse claims repeated in Virginia Giuffre's recently released book.

In the memoir, the accuser claims she had sexual encounters with the royal on three separate occasions, including one instance with Jeffrey Epstein and "several other minors"

Andrew, who agreed to a out-of-court agreement with the plaintiff in recent years, has consistently denied any misconduct. In 2019, he told BBC Newsnight he did not remember meeting Ms Giuffre "at all", and that they "did not have any sort of sexual contact."

Fresh Questions Over Finances and Housing

But recently, new inquiries have been raised about how he is able to finance his lifestyle despite not being a working royal.

The disclosure that he has only ever paid a token annual rent on his Royal Lodge has intensified the scrutiny over his housing situation - even though he made large payments up front, including for renovations.

The Liberal Democrats said he should be summoned front of members of parliament to give testimony about his rental agreement of his lodge.

But last Thursday, the authorities refused to give MPs time to discuss the prince's titles or his residence, despite increasing calls for scrutiny.

The royal household has not commented on whether Prince Andrew might move out of his home - or where he might reside.

Associated Issues

• The Duke of York
• UK Royal Family
• The Monarch