Captain Ian Farquhar, a personal friend of the King, has sadly passed away at the age of 78.

Ian was a close confidant of both Queen Camilla and King Charles and had the distinction of being the Queen Mother’s rider, enhancing his already esteemed reputation.

A proud member of the Queen’s Own Hussars, Ian was also known for his skills as a hunter and horseman.

This loss is particularly difficult for the King, who is also grappling with his own cancer diagnosis. Just last week, he faced the death of Lord Jacob Rothschild, who was 87.

In 2000, Prince William had a romantic relationship with Ian Farquhar’s daughter, Rose Farquhar, enjoying picnics in the picturesque Gloucestershire countryside.

Ian frequently rented a farmhouse on the King’s Highgrove estate in Gloucestershire, spending considerable time there.

Stephen Parker Bowles, Queen Camilla’s first husband, shared with the Daily Mail that Ian had been gravely ill.

Andy informed me that Ian passed away early Wednesday morning at Highgrove.

Andy fondly remembered Ian, describing him as “always a lot of fun, but as wild as a hawk” in his younger days.

He also predicted that Ian would be remembered as “one of the great Masters of Hounds” in history.

Ian held the title of Master of the Beaufort Hunt for thirty-four years.

The Beaufort Hunt paid tribute to their former leader on Instagram.

“We are deeply saddened to send our love and condolences to the family and friends of our own Captain Ian Farquhar,” they shared. After giving us 34 years of remarkable leadership, he passed away peacefully this week.

“Highly respected by many in the hunting community as ‘Captain,’ he was always approachable, supportive, and willing to offer thoughtful, forward-thinking advice to anyone who sought it.

“Those fortunate enough to spend time with Ian and hear about his extraordinary and adventurous life as a hunter and in the army will always cherish those memories.” Ian also had a sharp sense of humor.