Captain Ian Farquhar, a close friend of the king, sadly passed away at the age of 78. Ian had been a dear friend to King Charles and Queen Camilla for many years. He was also known for his role as the Queen Mother’s rider, further enhancing his esteemed reputation.

Ian was a renowned hunter and an excellent horseman who proudly served in the Queen’s Own Hussars. The King, who is already dealing with his own cancer diagnosis, is deeply saddened by Ian’s passing. This loss comes just a week after the death of Lord Jacob Rothschild, who was 87.

In 2000, Prince William dated Ian’s daughter, Rose Farquhar, while he was on leave. The young couple enjoyed romantic picnics in the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside.

For many years, Ian leased a farmhouse on King Charles’s Highgrove estate in Gloucestershire. Queen Camilla’s first husband, Stephen Parker Bowles, revealed to the Daily Mail that Ian had been quite ill.

Andy shared that Ian died at Highgrove early on Wednesday morning. He fondly remembered Ian, saying he was “always a lot of fun, but as wild as a hawk when he was young.”

Andy also noted that Ian would be remembered as “one of the great Masters of Hounds.”

Ian served as the esteemed Master of the Beaufort Hunt for 34 years.

“We are heartbroken to send our love and condolences to the family and friends of Captain Ian Farquhar,” they stated. “He gave us 34 years of excellent leadership before passing away peacefully this week.”

“Many in the hunting community held him in high regard as ‘Captain.’ He was always welcoming, helpful, and ready to offer anyone who asked for it excellent, progressive advice.”

“Anyone who had the good fortune to spend time with Ian and hear about his extraordinary and adventurous life in the army and as a hunter will cherish those memories forever. Ian had a sharp sense of humor.”