Buckingham Palace takes decisive step as damaging row overwhelms century-old institution
King Charles’s royal estate is now being overwhelmed by a fresh row as Palace makes effort to downplay the matter.
The monarch holds a special place for his Sandringham estate and is often seen attending service at the 16th-century-old St Mary Magdalene Church in Norfolk.
However, it has now been reported that the King’s place of worship has been plagued by a ‘bitter and damaging row’ as causes major division.
According to The Sun, there was a falling out between choirmaster Dr Claire Stewart and vicar Rev Canon Paul Williams over new plans to modernise the church.
Rev Paul is also the Domestic Chaplain to the King. He reportedly wants to modernise the church by introducing contemporary features such as a social media account for the choir.
Meanwhile, Dr Claire, the “adored” director of music for 12 years, lodged a 28-page complaint about her role in response. She is now apparently taking sick leave with work-related stress, which has escalated the matter.
“It feels like an episode of The Vicar of Dibley. But it’s turning into an unholy row and it’s starting to get very bitter and damaging,” a source told The Sun.
“It is overshadowing what should be a harmonious parish church on the King’s royal estate and heads need to be banged together.”
The insider noted that the monarch “has been made aware that there is an issue between the vicar and choirmaster” but Buckingham palace has declined to comment.
