King Charles is facing another heartbreaking loss with the passing of his close friend, Captain Ian Farquhar, at the age of 78. This news comes shortly after the death of Lord Rothschild, adding to a period of grief for the monarch.
Farquhar’s connection to the royal family ran deep. He was a long-time friend of both King Charles and Queen Camilla, and even served as a rider for the Queen Mother. A renowned hunter and horseman, Farquhar also served in the Queen’s Own Hussars.
His ties to the royal family extended to his daughter, Rose Farquhar, who spent time with Prince William during his gap year in 2000. The pair enjoyed picnics in the Gloucestershire countryside, forging a bond that lasted for years. Adding to the connection, Ian Farquhar had been renting a farmhouse on King Charles’ Highgrove estate for many years.
News of Farquhar’s passing was shared by King Charles’ first husband, Andrew Parker Bowles, who confirmed that Farquhar had been ill. He fondly remembered Farquhar, saying, “As wild as a hawk when he was young, but always a lot of fun.” Parker Bowles also noted Farquhar’s legacy as “one of the great Masters of Hounds.”
Farquhar’s impact extended beyond his royal connections. He served as Master of the Beaufort Hunt for 34 years, earning respect and admiration from the hunting community. The Beaufort Hunt shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, expressing their condolences and remembering Farquhar as a “pleasure to have…fly us for 34 years.” They highlighted his humor, helpfulness, and wealth of experience, noting that he was “very funny” and “a gentleman to boot.” The hunt’s tribute concluded with the touching image of “a whole pack of dogs…waiting for him” in the afterlife.
The loss of Captain Ian Farquhar is undoubtedly a significant blow to King Charles and the royal family, who have lost a trusted friend and confidante. His contributions to the hunting community and his long-standing connection to the royals will be fondly remembered.