Armed police whose job it is to guard Windsor Castle are being investigated over claims they fall asleep on the job.
Up to 30 staff at the Metropolitan Police's Royalty and Specialist Protection squad are under investigation for misconduct, as reports also emerged that some officers signed in for duty but never turned up to their post.
The probe comes after a spate of recent security breaches at the 13-acre castle estate, which regularly hosts high-profile official events and houses members of the royal family.
The King and Queen are understood to be aware of the investigation, which will decide by the end of next week whether any officers will be removed from the duty.
The Met Police said in a statement: 'Our Directorate of Professional Standards has launched an urgent investigation following concerns raised regarding the conduct of a number of officers on protective duties at Windsor Castle.
'The allegations include officers leaving posts unattended and sleeping while on duty.
'The alleged behaviour falls below the high standards expected of officers, particularly in frontline protective roles.
'The Independent Office for Police Conduct has been informed and concluded that this matter will be investigated locally by the Met.
A probe has been launched into up to 30 members of the Royalty and Specialist Protection Squad after reports emerged that some officers were falling asleep on duty at Windsor Castle (pictured)
The investigation follows a number of security breaches at the royal castle in recent years
'As part of their enquiries, DPS is assessing whether any of those under investigation should be placed on restricted duties. A decision is expected to be made on this before the end of next week.'
A source told the Sun: 'I've heard one allegation suggests someone clocking on for duty and then not turning up at their post.
'It's an embarrassment for the police, as well as exposing a potential security breach.
'These are serious allegations which could lead to officers being suspended and placed under investigation for misconduct and dereliction of duty.'
Windsor Castle sits within the Thames Valley Police boundary but security is provided by the Royalty and Specialist Protection Team.
Officers are supposed to be stationed at the castle's entrances and exits across the entire 15,800-acre estate, as well as foot patrols and a vast network of alarm systems.
The investigation follows a number of security breaches in recent years at the royal palaces.
In June last year, a man in his 30s was arrested after intruding into the grounds of Windsor Castle, close to the home of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Officers have said a man was detained on suspicion of trespass on a protected site and possession of Class A drugs, before being bailed.
In October 2024, masked burglars smashed down a security barrier and scaled Windsor Castle's estate fence nearby to where Prince William and Princess Kate were sleeping at home with their children.
The two men reportedly used a stolen truck to smash through a security gate before stealing farm vehicles and driving off in a pick-up and on a quad bike that they took from a barn at Shaw Farm.
The Daily Mail has contacted Buckingham Palace for comment.