Kate Middleton and Prince William "upset" after chief bodyguard quits job

Chief Inspector John Hourihan has taken up a head of security role at the famous secure psychiatric hospital



Prince William and Kate's chief bodyguard has quit the job - to be chief of security at Broadmoor.

Kate and Wills were both said to have been “surprised and upset” by their guard’s decision to leave his job.

Chief Inspector John Hourihan had become much respected by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge after being drafted in to oversee their security in 2008.

Mourihan, who worked for Scotland Yard’s elite Royalty Protection Branch, accompanied the couple on numerous high-profile trips including last year’s visit to Borneo.

He is believed to have been tempted by the lucrative offer of work with the private security outfit at Broadmoor, the famous secure psychiatric hospital in Berkshire.

A source said: “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, latterly on their successful royal tour to Singapore and Borneo.

“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 Kate said, “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.”

Mr Hourihan was drafted in to head up Kate and Wills’ security in 2008 when the Duchess, who was not engaged to the Prince at that point, was given round the clock protection.

The move echoed when Lady Diana Spencer got engaged to Prince Charles and another chief inspector, Graham Smith, was immediately named as head of her bodyguard team.

Mr Hourihan was chosen because of his immense experience, charm and discretion.

He managed two teams of up to four hand-picked bodyguards who are highly trained in marksmanship, close protection duties - including emergency first aid - and the essential diplomatic skills.

It is understood that Prince Charles’ Personal Protection Office, Superintendent Tim Nash, is now in overall control of security for Charles, William and Harry.

It is not known who will replace Chief Inspector Hourihan.