While the Queen is celebrating Christmas: armed intruder arrested on the grounds of Windsor Castle

Enlarge image

Police guard the gate of Windsor Castle on Boxing Day

Photo: Alastair Grant / dpa

British police arrested an armed man on Saturday in the grounds of Windsor Castle, where Queen Elizabeth II is celebrating Christmas this year.

As the Thames Valley Police announced on Saturday, the 19-year-old broke through the security zone around the residence of Queen Elizabeth II at around 8:30 a.m.

Superintendent: No danger to the public

"We can confirm the security processes were triggered immediately and the man did not enter any buildings," said Superintendent Rebecca Mears.

What kind of weapon the intruder was carrying was not stated in the notification.

The members of the royal family had been informed of the incident.

One does not assume a danger to the public, it said further.

Because of the pandemic, Queen Elizabeth II will not be spending the festive season and the turn of the year at her country estate in Sandringham, East England, but at Windsor Castle.

On Christmas Day, she celebrated in a small circle with her sons Prince Charles (73), Prince Edward (57) and her cousin Prince Richard and their partners.

For the British Queen, it is the first Christmas since the death of her husband Philip.

At her traditional Christmas party, she was optimistic as usual - and showed insights into her soul.

Queen: Philip would like his family to enjoy Christmas

"Although it is a time of great joy and happiness for many, Christmas can be difficult for those who have lost loved ones," said the Queen in the address broadcast on Christmas Day, adding: "This year especially, I understand why. «

The Prince Consort died in April at the age of 99.

In the months that followed, she took great comfort in the warmth and affection of many appreciations for the life and work of "my beloved Philips," said the Queen during her address in the festively decorated White Drawing Room of Windsor Castle.

Philip would like his family to enjoy Christmas, said the monarch.

But due to the pandemic, the celebrations cannot be carried out as usual this year either.

Small things and rituals like decorating Christmas trees are all the more important.

For the coming year, the monarch was optimistic: In six weeks, she wanted to celebrate the 70th anniversary of her accession to the throne.

"I hope there will be an opportunity for people everywhere to enjoy a sense of community," said the monarch.

svs / Reuters / AP