Prince Andrew has been dealt a fresh blow as a high school named after him has announced that it will be changing its name to distance itself from the disgraced duke’s controversies.
The Duke of York, 64, has found himself in hot water on numerous occasions in recent months, prompting his own family members to distance themselves from him as a result.
Now, Prince Andrew School, the only high school located in St Helena, a British Overseas Territory in the south Atlantic Ocean, is keen to be free from Andrew’s “controversial ties.”
“The school believes a neutral name will foster a positive and forward-thinking learning environment, free from contentious associations,” St Helena’s government said of the decision in a statement.
It said that changing the school’s name is vital to maintain its values, which were mired by the former working royal’s recent setbacks.
In December, Andrew found himself in hot water after his business adviser was accused of being a Chinese spy, prompting the launch of a special immigration investigation.
The duke’s former staffer, who was not named and is only known as a “close confidant,” was banned from entering the UK following the allegations.
As a result, Andrew was reportedly urged to uninvite himself from the royal family’s Christmas lunch, despite the 45-people-strong guest list.
The controversy came after the financial firm managing Andrew’s private investments sensationally shut down.
King Charles’ younger brother was then reported to the police and accused of using a fake name to register a company.
London’s Metropolitan Police is currently in the process of determining whether any further action against the duke is required.
Days later, he was snubbed from a royal dinner held at Windsor Castle last month — despite living at the Royal Lodge, which is located on the grounds of the residence.
And last month, it was revealed that Andrew had kept in contact with late sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein for longer than he initially claimed.
Buckingham Palace has since approved the school’s name change, according to St Helena officials
“This renaming also provides an opportunity to select a name that aligns with the school’s shared principles and aspirations for students and St Helena.”
The Post has reached out to Buckingham Palace for comment.
“While we respect history, we must also be mindful of how past associations impact the present and future,” principal Phil Toal said.
“Choosing a new name allows us to honor the contributions of our students and community without the burden of controversial ties.”
The school is currently selecting names brought forward by pupils, and the suggestion with the most votes will be submitted to the Portfolio Advisory Board for final approval.
