Beatrice's clever move amid latest pregnancy – after Prince Andrew scandal

The news that Princess Beatrice is joyfully expecting her second child will have provided a welcome slice of good news for the York family after a very tough few years

The announcement that Princess Beatrice is expecting her second child has come as a welcome relief for the York family, following a tumultuous year. The family has been embroiled in an escalating dispute over Prince Andrew's residence at Royal Lodge and the Duke's Newsnight interview has been scrutinised in two TV series.

It's no surprise then, that this joyful news will have brought some positivity to the family. However, in light of reports suggesting that the Princess is steering clear of her father's home, former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond told OK!: "I imagine this whole business has been extraordinarily difficult for Beatrice and Eugenie, particularly Beatrice because she was involved in the recording of the interview."

Although it is clear that the mind is now focused on more positive topics as the Princess waits to welcome her second child with husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. "Beatrice strikes me as a very compassionate young woman and I am sure she cares deeply about both her father and her mother in this whole drama especially with the renewed interest because of the latest documentary," Jennie adds.

"However, there comes a time when you have to look after your own young family first and I suspect Beatrice has reached that right now. I think the Yorks remain an incredibly close family and support one another through everything. I very much doubt Beatrice is avoiding Royal Lodge but like any young mother she's got plenty to deal with in her own life and in her own home at the moment."

Their closeness was highlighted by Princess Eugenie in her heartfelt congratulations to her sister following the pregnancy announcement: "Congratulations Beabea... So looking forward to more on this journey of motherhood together. And adding another little one to the gang."

Echoing the sentiments, Sarah, Duchess of York penned an emotive letter about the upcoming addition to the family: "Darling Beatrice. Words can't quite express the joy and excitement I feel as you and Edo prepare to welcome another precious addition to your beautiful family.

"Becoming a granny again fills my heart with so much happiness and gratitude. Watching you grow as a mother has been one of the greatest privileges of my life, and now to see your family blossom further is an absolute blessing. Our family is growing, and so too is the love that surrounds us. I cannot wait to meet this little one and to share in all the wonderful memories we will make together."

Jennie shed light on how the latest addition to the Royal brood will present the Duchess and Prince Andrew with a chance for fresh engagement. "This must be wonderful news for Sarah, particularly after her two brushes with cancer, and I'm sure she will absolutely relish being granny to four tiny tots."

She also conveyed the potential impact on Prince Andrew: "And, whatever you think about Andrew, being a grandad must surely give him some perspective on a life that has gone so seriously wrong. Little people won't know about all the scandals. And little people will love their grandad. For them, he will be important and untainted. That, undoubtedly will mean a great deal to him."