King Charles has bid farewell to another long-serving member of his personal staff, with loyal butler Bernie Flannery leaving after more than four decades of service to the Royal Family.
Throughout his career, Mr Flannery witnessed royal marriages and divorces, as well as landmark events such as the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the King's accession.
A loyal servant's departure
Award-winning royal author Robert Jobson announced the news, writing: "Bernie Flannery leaves the King's personal staff this weekend. The loyal butler is the latest of His Majesty's team to leave his side, after more than forty years at his beck and call."
Mr Jobson paid tribute to Mr Flannery, describing him as "the most loyal of the loyal", and wished him a peaceful retirement.
Mr Flannery began his royal career aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia before joining the future King's personal service in the early 1990s. He made such an impression that when Charles and Diana separated in 1992, both requested he be added to their respective staff lists. He ultimately remained with the King, reportedly at the royal's own insistence.
Another key departure
Mr Flannery's exit comes weeks after it was announced that Sir Clive Alderton, the King's long-serving private secretary, will retire next year, coinciding with his 60th birthday in May.
Sir Clive has held the role for 11 years and has served the royal family for 20 years in total. He said: "It has been the greatest imaginable honour to serve The King and Queen in my present role through such historic times and with unforgettable humour along the way. That support will continue, in a less formal capacity, for all of my life."
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said the King and Queen are "deeply grateful to Clive for his tireless support and wise counsel over the years, and for the enduring loyalty that will ensure a smooth transition to his successor".
The Duke of Sussex referred to Sir Clive in his memoir Spare as "the wasp". Sir Clive has pledged to ensure a seamless handover, with applicants considered internally and externally. Those close to him have noted his dedication, with one friend saying he will soon spend "more time with his own family, rather than the Royal Family".
