Probe launched after fake 'priest' talks his way into Windsor Castle barracks

The security scare occurred when the imposter conned their way inside the barracks after soldiers were approached at the gate last Tuesday night by the man who was pretending to be a priest.

It has been claimed that he spent the night eating and drinking with senior officers before being offered a bed for the night, despite showing no identification or credentials.

The 96-year-old monarch was staying at her Sandringham estate when the alleged intrusion took place.

The barracks is close to the castle, located 50 kilometres west of London, where the queen spends much of her time.

They are home to the Coldstream Guards, recognised by their distinctive red jackets and bearskin hats, who are engaged in a ceremonial role as protectors of Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace.

Police were alerted to reports of an intruder at Victoria Barracks in Sheet Street, Windsor, at 9.20am on Wednesday.

A source told TalkTV’s The News Desk: “This is just an extraordinary breach of security.

“The guy turned up at the gate in the evening and said his name was Father Cruise and claimed to be a friend of the battalion’s Padre Rev Matt Coles.

“He was invited in and offered something to eat in the Officer’s Mess.

“Within a couple of hours, he was drinking with the officers in the bar and telling them stories of how he had served in Iraq.

“He was telling lots of tall stories and the lads were enjoying his banter and having a few drinks.”

An Army spokesperson said: “The Army takes this breach of security extremely seriously and it will be thoroughly investigated as a matter of priority.

“This incident is now part of an ongoing investigation and it would therefore be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”

A Thames Valley Police spokesman has been quoted as saying: “We received a report of an intruder at Victoria Barracks in Sheet Street, Windsor, at 9.20am on Wednesday.

“Officers attended and removed the intruder from the barracks. No further action was required.