Captain Ian Farquhar, celebrated hunter and equerry to queen mother, dies at Highgrove estate

The royal circle mourns the loss of Captain Ian Farquhar, a close friend of King Charles and Queen Camilla, who passed away at the age of 78. Ian, known for his long-standing friendship with the royal family, served as an equerry to the Queen Mother and was a respected figure in royal and equestrian circles.

A skilled horseman and celebrated hunter, Ian’s passion for hunting and horses was well-known. He was a master of the Beaufort Hunt for an impressive 34 years, a testament to his dedication and expertise in the field.

Ian’s passing comes as another blow to the royal family, who are already dealing with King Charles’ own health issues and the recent death of Lord Jacob Rothschild. His daughter, Rose Farquhar, had a romantic relationship with Prince William during his gap year in 2000, adding a personal connection to the royal family.

Living on the King’s Highgrove estate in Gloucestershire, Ian was a familiar figure in the local community and a beloved member of the hunting fraternity. His passing is deeply felt by all who knew him, with tributes pouring in from friends and colleagues.

Andrew Parker Bowles, the first husband of Queen Camilla, described Ian as “wild as a hawk in his youth, but always great fun.” He praised Ian’s legacy as one of the great Masters of Hounds, highlighting his impact on the hunting world.

The Beaufort Hunt, where Ian served as master, paid tribute to him on Instagram, describing him as a true countryman and a true gent. They remembered him as someone who was always supportive, kind, and had a wicked sense of humour.

Ian’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his legacy in the hunting world will be cherished for years to come. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving a void in the royal circle and the hunting community that will be hard to fill.