One of King Charles’ most senior staff members, Bernie Flannery, is to stand down this weekend after being by the monarch’s side for 40 years.
The news was revealed by royal author Robert Jobson on his Substack page. “Bernie Flannery leaves the King’s personal staff this weekend,” he wrote. “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.“
Bernie joined Charles’ staff in the early 1990s after serving aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia. He clearly made an impression on both Charles and his then-wife, Princess Diana, as when the royal couple split, it was revealed that both wanted him to continue serving them. Bernie chose Charles on the royal’s insistence.
Robert concluded his post by saying: “He is the most loyal of the loyal. Happy retirement Bernie. I raise a glass to you.”
During his years with the King, Bernie has mostly stayed out of the headlines, although in 1999, he was involved in a car crash after picking up a new car for the Royal Household.
This isn’t the only change of staff that Charles has recently faced, as last month Sir Clive Alderton confirmed that next yearhe would be standing down from his role after 20 years.
Clive has served the royal household since 2006, including a three-year stint as an ambassador. He has decided to step aside from the position around the summer of 2027, HELLO! understands, which will allow plenty of time to recruit his replacement.
He is said to have played “an immense and critical” role in support of Their Majesties over the course of his 20 years working for the family.
© Max Mumby/IndigoReflecting on his time in the job, Clive 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.”
King Charles’ summer break
As Bernie prepares to leave his role, Charles is about to head on his summer break. The monarch was the picture of glee on Friday as he met locals in Dingwall in the Scottish Highlands. The town was celebrating 800 years since it had been granted Royal Burgh status.
© Royal FamilyDressed in a traditional tartan kilt, complete with a sporran, Charles beamed with joy as he met volunteers, community groups, young people and emergency service representatives who embody the creative and community spirit of the town.
During his visit, he presented the King’s Award for Voluntary Service to representatives of Evanton Wood Community Company, and Highland and Island Blood Bikes.
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