Royal author Robert Jobson broke the news, revealing: "Bernie Flannery leaves the King's personal staff this weekend. TRENDING Stories Videos Your SayMr Jobson paid warm tribute to the departing butler, describing him as "the most loyal of the loyal" and wishing him a happy retirement. Mr Flannery began his royal career aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia before moving into Charles' personal service in the early 1990s. Mr Flannery ultimately remained with the King at the royal's own insistence. As Mr Flannery prepares for retirement, the King himself is on the cusp of his summer holiday.