King Charles’ Christmas energy crisis threatens festive plans

The strike involves 400 tanker drivers at Certas Energy, a main supplier to Sandringham, where the royal family traditionally spends several weeks around Christmas and New Year.

Unite, the union representing drivers, said the strike could give 78-year-old King and Queen Camilla a “cold Christmas”.

Drivers plan to walk away for 15 days between December 22 and January 5 over a pay dispute.

The royal family is expected to head to Sandringham this weekend.

More than 40 family members, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, both 43, will be in attendance, while William and Kate stay at Anmer Hall on the estate.

The estate is also home to St Mary Magdalene Church, where the family will attend the Christmas Day service, and Marsh Farm, which will become the residence of Andrew Windsor, 65, following his recent royal exile.