Prince William and Duchess Catherine are ”upset” their top bodyguard has quit.
Chief Inspector John Hourihan has left the royal couple ”surprised” by his decision to leave to become chief of security at Broadmoor psychiatric hospital.
John worked for Scotland Yard’s elite Royalty Protection Branch and had been with the prince and duchess since 2008. He had accompanied them to numerous high-profile events and on overseas trips including last year’s visit to the Far East.
A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: ”John is a very respected police officer with the Royalty and Diplomatic Protection Department who has served Scotland Yard and the Royal Family with distinction.
”During his career with S014 he worked as the Personal Protection Officer for the Earl and Countess of Wessex and latterly heading up security for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
”He was brought in to use his wealth of experience to establish the security team surrounding the Duchess after her engagement to Prince William was announced and has travelled with them extensively.
”But after serving as an Scotland Yard officer for 30 years he has decided to move on and try something new.
”He was snapped up by a private security company as a consultant and is now assisting the company’s security operations at Broadmoor Hospital.”
A source close to William and his wife added: ”John was a fabulous guy who was always there where they needed him. Calm, astute and experienced he was a top man. They will miss him but wish him well in the future.”
It is understood Prince Charles’ Personal Protection Officer, Superintendent Tim Nash, is currently in overall control of security for Prince Charles, William and Prince Harry, but it is unknown who will replace John in the long term.