Queen Camilla’s former bodyguard lands important new job with King Charles as part of palace shake-up
THE Queen Consort’s former bodyguard has been made the King’s new head driver.
Former firearms officer Mark Andrews will provide Charles and Camilla with extra security alongside police bodyguards.
Sources claimed he would “jump in front of a flying bullet” for them.
His appointment is said to be part of a Camilla-led shake-up of Buckingham Palace staff.
Mr Andrews was head of her police personal protection team before retiring from the Met last year aged 60.
He spent about 20 years guarding the Royal Family and is said to have had a particularly close working relationship with Camilla.
He will not carry a gun in his new role as chauffeur.
But one source said: “Camilla knows he would leap in front of a flying bullet for the King and her if he had to.”
In 2010, rioters attacked the royal limo as she and Charles were driven to a London theatre in 2010.
The source went on: “Camilla was particularly shaken. It enhanced her awareness about security and she came to place great trust and reliance in Mark.”
Former Scotland Yard commander John O’ Connor said: “He is clearly trusted and highly regarded by them, but there is the added importance of security, especially with the Coronation coming up.”
He replaces Charles’s own long-term head driver, Tim Williams, who is retiring.
However, his appointment is said to have put “noses out of joint” among some Buckingham Palace staff.
They fear being replaced by Royal Household colleagues at Clarence House, where Charles and Camilla still reside.
Camilla is determined to keep trusted aides and staff by her side.
One insider said: “It’s causing disquiet below stairs.”
Buckingham Palace said: “We do not discuss individual members of staff.’’