King Charles meets outgoing Equerry amid ceremony at Balmoral Castle

King Charles welcomed Commander William Thornton RN to Balmoral Castle today in a moving ceremony marking Thornton’s conclusion of duties as Equerry. 

In recognition of his dedicated service, the King presented him with the Insignia of a Member of the Royal Victorian Order.

In a separate engagement, His Majesty was represented by Field Marshal Lord Richards of Herstmonceux, former Chief of the Defence Staff, at the funeral of Major General Brian Pennicott, held today at St Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Farnham, Surrey.

The event highlights King Charles’s commitment to honouring both personal service and national duty.

Meanwhile, governmental advisors from Balmoral announced a temporary closure of the castle to the public due to the severe weather from Storm Floris. 

With gusts reaching up to 80–90 mph across parts of Scotland, visitors were warned to steer clear, and ticket refunds were issued accordingly.

Just a week earlier, the King inaugurated the Brora Heritage Centre, met local artists, and took part in celebrations of northern Scotland’s culture and heritage.