Jeremy Clarkson's business partner Johnny Hornby quits Prince Harry's charity Sentebale after 11 years of service

Johnny Hornby, a prominent figure in the advertising industry and a trustee of Sentebale, a charity co-founded by Prince Harry, has stepped down from his position after 11 years of service. Hornby's departure has garnered praise from Prince Harry, who acknowledged his leadership, vision, dedication, partnership, and friendship. Hornby's contribution to Sentebale enabled the charity to provide comprehensive support to thousands of children and young people in Lesotho and Botswana.

Johnny Hornby has stepped down as chairman of Prince Harry's charity after 11 years. Pictured: Mr Hornby with Meghan Markle at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club in July 2018

Hornby, known for his smoothness and commercial acumen, was often seen in the company of Prince Harry and Meghan during his time as a trustee. Despite his close association with the Sussexes, he also maintained a warm friendship and professional relationship with Jeremy Clarkson, the presenter of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" Together, they ventured into a brewing business called Hawkstone, producing lager, pale ale, and cider.

The advertising king has a business partnership with Jeremy Clarkson, who faced backlash for comments made about Meghan Markle in a column. Pictured: Mr Clarkson (left), Mr Hornby (centre) and Kaleeb Cooper (right) at the Hawkstone lager launch in November 2021

Clarkson's public criticism of Meghan, including offensive remarks, led to widespread condemnation. Hornby, being friends with both Clarkson and Harry, reportedly intervened and suggested that Clarkson should apologize. Following Hornby's advice, Clarkson issued a full public apology, which averted a potential boycott of Hawkstone lager.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were not placated by Clarkson's apology for his comments, writing it was 'clear that this is not an isolated incident shared in haste, but rather a series of articles shared in hate'. Pictured: The Duke and Duchess of Sussex at the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Gala at New York Hilton in December 2022

While some may view Hornby's involvement as motivated solely by protecting his brewing interests, he has been known for his dedication to charitable causes in the past. When asked about his work for Sentebale and the possibility of receiving a knighthood, he promptly redirected the focus to Prince Harry's deserving contributions.

Hornby's departure from Sentebale may bring some ease to his second wife, Clare, who runs the successful clothing brand Me+Em, valued at over £100 million. In a previous interview last year, Clare credited Catherine, who was the Duchess of Cambridge by then as having the biggest impact on her business, admiring Catherine's global appeal and stoicism.