Duke of Gloucester takes over from King Charles as Pavilion patron

Brighton and Hove Museums has announced that the Duke of Gloucester, Prince Richard, has taken over as patron of the charity, which also runs Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, the Booth Museum and more.

The previous patron was the former Prince of Wales but he stepped down when he became King in 2022.

The Duke of Gloucester is the late Queen Elizabeth II’s cousin and a full-time working member of the Royal Family. He attends national and international events in support of the King and his duties as Head of State, as well as undertaking extensive public duties and engagements every year reflecting his own interests and charities.

Hedley Swain, chief executive officer of Brighton and Hove Museums, and chairman of the trustees Michael Bedingfield met the duke in the summer at Kensington Palace to make arrangements for a visit to Brighton and Hove in 2025.

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Mr Swain said: “It was lovely to be informed by Buckingham Palace that the duke would take on the role. We are thrilled he is giving our charity his support.

“The duke has a background in heritage and architecture and is associated with several other charities in the sector. We look forward to welcoming him to the Royal Pavilion and our other venues.”

Brighton and Hove Museums also runs Preston Manor and Garden and Hove Museum of Creativity.

It comes after the Royal Pavilion was voted one of Britain’s most beautiful buildings.

The Pavilion, in the heart of the city, was rated 11th in the list of the top 30 most beautiful buildings in Britain.

Researchers at Leonardo Hotels surveyed 2,000 Brits and asked them to vote for their favourite landmarks.

Brighton and Hove Museums which runs the Royal Pavilion said it was thrilled with the news.

A spokeswoman added: "The great thing about the Pavilion building is it is as unbelievably beautiful inside as it is outside. Don't you agree?"