Benjamin Duncan, a university friend of the Prince and Princess of Wales, has died after falling from the roof of a luxury London hotel. The 45-year-old socialite fell approximately 100 feet from the seventh floor of the Trafalgar St. James Hotel in Spring Gardens on Thursday evening.
Police were called to concerns for a man on the roof of the building in Cockspur Street, Westminster, at 11.02pm. Despite efforts from the London Ambulance Service, Mr Duncan was pronounced dead at the scene. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed the incident is not being treated as suspicious.
Mr Duncan studied at the University of St Andrews with Prince William and Kate Middleton, later becoming a media personality on reality TV shows such as Channel 4's Big Brother in 2010, Come Dine With Me, and Celebrity Coach Trip. He was known for his wit and charm, earning tributes from fellow cast members and friends.
Big Brother winner Josie Gibson described him as “one of the most unique, hilariously funny, dry-witted guys I know.” Broadcaster Mike Hollingsworth wrote: “He lived life as Peter Pan - the boy who never grew up. He will be sorely missed by his many friends.” TV presenter Lizzie Cundy also paid tribute, calling him “a beautiful soul with a large fun character.”
Friends revealed that in recent years Mr Duncan had become more reclusive and struggled with insomnia. One friend noted: “It’s devastating to know he was suffering in ways no one could see.” Mr Duncan had previously spoken publicly about witnessing the beginnings of William and Kate’s relationship at St Andrews, including Kate’s iconic fashion show appearance.
