Prince Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson were spotted among other members of the Royal Family attending the Christmas Day church service at St Mary Magdalene's on the Sandringham grounds. This marks Fergie's first appearance at the service in over three decades, following her exclusion after the couple's divorce in 1996. Last year, she was invited by King Charles to join the family for Christmas at Sandringham, although she did not attend the church service.

Prince Andrew's attendance comes in the aftermath of his resignation from royal duties and the Queen's decision to strip him of his military affiliations and patronages due to his involvement in a sex scandal earlier this year. Andrew has consistently denied the allegations against him and reached a reported £12 million settlement with his accuser, Virginia Giuffre, though it does not constitute an admission of guilt.

This latest church outing coincides with fresh accusations of sexual assault directed at Prince Andrew. Johanna Sjoberg, aged 42, has accused him of groping her at Jeffrey Epstein's New York mansion in March 2001. The unsealing of material related to Ms. Sjoberg by Judge Loretta Preska in two weeks' time adds to the Duke's already tarnished reputation.

The former royal couple is believed to be staying at Wood Farm, a favorite cottage of the late Prince Philip, during their Christmas holiday at Sandringham. As is customary, the royal Christmas celebration includes greeting well-wishers outside the church and a family lunch featuring a traditional turkey meal.

Sandringham House, which has been the private residence of four generations of British monarchs for over 160 years, now belongs to King Charles. His second Christmas message as monarch will be broadcast at 3 pm, recorded in the Centre Room of Buckingham Palace, adorned with a living Christmas tree decorated with natural and sustainable ornaments.

Prince Andrew's presence at the Christmas service and ongoing controversies surrounding him continue to raise questions and cast a shadow over the Royal Family during the holiday season.