King Charles mourns long-time friend Alec Cobbe
King Charles is mourning the death of his long-time friend Mr Alec Cobbe, who died aged 81, as the monarch approaches his 21st wedding anniversary with Queen Camilla. The loss comes during a week of public engagements for the King and Queen, and adds a personal note to their anniversary period.
Hello Magazine reported that Mr Cobbe, an Anglo-Irish designer and artist, was a friend of the King for many years and had been appointed a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) by Charles in February in recognition of personal service to the Royal Family.
The report said Mr Cobbe hand-sketched invitations for Prince William’s 21st birthday party at Windsor Castle in 2003, and contributed artworks for occasions hosted by the King. It added that he was described by Charles as an “accrocheur”, and that he died at the end of March.
Beyond his royal connections, Mr Cobbe was known as custodian of Hatchlands Park, a National Trust property outside Guildford, and assembled the Cobbe Collection of pianos there. Following his death, Hatchlands announced it would close as a mark of respect, while Castle Howard also paid tribute to his work and influence.
The King and Queen are expected to mark their anniversary on Thursday, having married in 2005 at Windsor Guildhall. While personal bereavements are usually kept private, the news underscores the breadth of long-standing relationships formed around royal life and service.
