Dame Charlotte Manley, former private secretary to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has been recognised during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle. She was appointed Dame Commander of the Royal Victorian Order by King Charles, an honour announced in the New Year Honours List for 2026. Dame Charlotte previously served in senior roles within the royal household, including as Private Secretary and Treasurer to Andrew in the early 2000s.
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Her recognition comes shortly after reports that she is willing to speak to police regarding her time working for the Duke. In comments to The Times, she indicated a preference to cooperate with authorities rather than engage publicly, suggesting she had limited information to provide. The development follows renewed scrutiny surrounding Andrew’s past associations.
Dame Charlotte’s career spans both military and royal service. She served as an officer in the Royal Navy for two decades before joining the royal household, later holding roles including chapter clerk at St George’s Chapel, Windsor. Her previous honours include an OBE and appointment as Commander of the Royal Victorian Order, reflecting longstanding service to the monarchy.
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The honour is awarded amid an ongoing police assessment linked to allegations involving Andrew and his connections to Jeffrey Epstein. Multiple police forces are reviewing extensive documentation released earlier this year. Andrew has denied any wrongdoing and remains under investigation, having previously been released without charge.
