coronavirus pandemic. Although it has reopened to visitors its capacity is much reduced as a result of the limitations from social distancing rules to ensure it is Covid-secure.John Barnes, the head of the Historic Royal Palaces (HRP) charity, which runs the Tower, told the Sun: “We simply have no choice but to reduce our payroll costs.“We are heartbroken that it has come to this.”HRP believes it is the first time that the guards, recognisable for their decorative red and black uniforms, have faced redundancy in their long history – having been formed by Henry VII in 1485.Mr Barnes said they "simply had no choice" but to make the cuts.“Historic Royal Palaces is a self-funded charity.