The Duke of Roxburghe, one of Britain’s most eligible bachelors, has turned 40. This milestone marks a significant chapter in the life of Charles Innes-Ker, who has been making headlines for his high-profile relationships and family connections. Born on February 18, 1981, Charles is the eldest son of the late 10th Duke of Roxburghe, Guy Innes-Ker, and Lady Jane Grosvenor, daughter of the Duke of Westminster. His family’s storied history and aristocratic lineage have long been a subject of fascination among royal watchers and the general public alike.
As the heir to the Duke of Roxburghe title, Charles has been groomed for his future role in society. His marriage to the Honorable Charlotte Aitken in 2011 solidified his position within the British aristocracy. The couple’s engagement was announced in January 2021, sparking renewed interest in the life and legacy of the Duke of Roxburghe. With his 40th birthday marking a significant transition in his life, Charles Innes-Ker’s journey is set to continue as he assumes his rightful place among Britain’s elite.
what are some of the most notable achievements of the Duke of Roxburghe
- Breeding Success: He bred several high-class racehorses, including the first double Classic winner, Attraction, who won the 1,000 Guineas and the Irish 1,000 Guineas in 2004.
- Racing and Stud Operations: The Duke was a successful breeder and owner of racehorses. He was also a director of Kelso racecourse and a member of the Jockey Club, contributing significantly to the sport.
- Modernization of Roxburghe Estates: He modernized and turned Roxburghe Estates into a successful business, enhancing the community around Kelso and the estate.
- Wind Farm Development: In 2012, he developed a substantial wind farm around the Lammermuir Hills, demonstrating his commitment to renewable energy.
- Philanthropy: He undertook a 190-mile walk with Sotheby’s chairman Henry Wyndham to raise £1.3 million for cancer research after his cancer diagnosis in 2009.
- Community Involvement: He was deeply involved in the local community, enhancing the accessibility of Floors Castle and supporting various initiatives in the area.
- Family Legacy: He was the 10th Duke of Roxburghe, inheriting the title and the beautiful Floors Castle in Kelso, which has been a significant part of Scottish history and culture.
These achievements reflect the Duke’s multifaceted personality, encompassing his passion for horses, business, and community involvement, as well as his dedication to philanthropy and preserving the family legacy.
what were the Duke of Roxburghe’s contributions to horse racing
- Breeding Attraction: He bred the first double Classic winner, Attraction, who won the 1,000 Guineas and the Irish 1,000 Guineas in 2004.
- Racing Success: Attraction, trained by Mark Johnston, won four Group 1 races, including the Newmarket 1,000 and Irish 1,000 Guineas, Coronation and Sun Chariot Stakes.
- Breeding Elarqam: Attraction’s son, Elarqam, won the York Stakes and was a Juddmonte International third.
- Breeding Fountain Of Youth: Another colt from Attraction, Fountain Of Youth, became a Group 3-winning sprinter and a stallion at Bearstone Stud.
- Breeding Rare Rhythm: In partnership with Highclere Stud, he bred the Group 3-winning stayer Rare Rhythm, Dante Stakes winner Bonfire, and Pretty Polly Stakes runner-up Shambolic.
- Chairmanship of the National Stud: He contributed to the sport through his chairmanship of the National Stud, which supports the breeding and improvement of thoroughbred horses.
- Director of Kelso Racecourse: He was a director of Kelso racecourse, enhancing the racing scene in the area.
These achievements reflect the Duke’s passion for horse breeding and racing, as well as his significant contributions to the sport.
what was the significance of Attraction’s wins in the 1,000 Guineas and Irish 1,000 Guineas
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| His Grace the 11th Duke of Roxburghe. |
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| Guy and Virginia, Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe, with their children. |
On 18 February 1981, Charles Robert George Innes-Kerr, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, was born at Edinburgh to Guy and Jane, the Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe. Charles’ parents, Guy Innes-Ker, 10th Duke of Roxburghe (1954-2019) and Lady Jane Grosvenor (b.1953; daughter of the Duke of Westminster), had wed in 1977. Guy and Jane had three children: Lady Rosanagh (b.1979; married James Walter Grimston, Viscount Grimston), Charles (the heir), Lord Edward (b.1984; married Celia Brook). Guy Roxburghe and Jane Grosvenor divorced in 1990. In 1992, the 10th Duke of Roxburghe married Virginia Mary Williams-Wynn, with whom he had two further children: Lady Isabella (b.1994), and Lord George (b.1996).
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| Charles Innes-Ker, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, and the Hon. Charlotte Aitken. Photograph (c) Ikon Pictures/REX/Shutterstock. |
Charles Innes-Ker was educated at Eton College and the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, and dated Lord Beaverbrook’s daughter, the Hon. Charlotte Susanna Aitken (b.1982), for many years. On 22 July 2011, the couple were married at London. The wedding announcement placed in The Telegraph by the bride’s father read as follows:
The marriage took place on Friday, July 22, at the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and St Gregory, Warwick Street, London, between Charles, eldest son of the Duke of Roxburghe and Lady Jane Dawnay, and Charlotte, elder daughter of Lord and Lady Beaverbrook. Dom Edward Corbould officiated, assisted by the Rev Anthony Hogg.
The bride was attended by Isabel Sanderson, Iris Goldsmith, Emilia Methven, Frankie Goldsmith, Milo Methven and Ben Way. Mr Freddy Galliers-Pratt was best man.
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| Charles Innes-Ker and Morvarid Sahafi. Photograph (c) Dominic O’Neill. |
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| Father and son: Guy and Charles Innes-Ker. Photograph (c) Rex Features. |
In January 2021, the engagement was announced between the Duke of Roxburghe and Annabel Green.
what are the key achievements of the Duke of Roxburghe
- Breeding Success: He bred several high-class racehorses, including the first double Classic winner, Attraction, who won the 1,000 Guineas and the Irish 1,000 Guineas in 2004.
- Racing and Stud Operations: The Duke was a successful breeder and owner of racehorses. He was also a director of Kelso racecourse and a member of the Jockey Club, contributing significantly to the sport.
- Modernization of Roxburghe Estates: He modernized and turned Roxburghe Estates into a successful business, enhancing the community around Kelso and the estate.
- Wind Farm Development: In 2012, he developed a substantial wind farm around the Lammermuir Hills, demonstrating his commitment to renewable energy.
- Philanthropy: He undertook a 190-mile walk with Sotheby’s chairman Henry Wyndham to raise £1.3 million for cancer research after his cancer diagnosis in 2009.
- Community Involvement: He was deeply involved in the local community, enhancing the accessibility of Floors Castle and supporting various initiatives in the area.
- Family Legacy: He was the 10th Duke of Roxburghe, inheriting the title and the beautiful Floors Castle in Kelso, which has been a significant part of Scottish history and culture.
These achievements reflect the Duke’s multifaceted personality, encompassing his passion for horses, business, and community involvement, as well as his dedication to philanthropy and preserving the family legacy.
As we conclude our exploration of the life and legacy of the Duke of Roxburghe, we are reminded of the significance of his contributions to British society. From his early years as a member of the aristocracy to his later years as a prominent figure in the world of horse racing and breeding, the Duke has consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence and his dedication to his family and community. His marriage to the Honorable Charlotte Aitken in 2011 marked a significant milestone in his life, solidifying his position within the British aristocracy. As we reflect on the Duke’s journey, we are struck by the enduring impact he has had on those around him and the lasting legacy he has left behind.
The Duke of Roxburghe’s life and legacy serve as a testament to the enduring power of family, tradition, and community. As we look to the future, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and honoring the contributions of those who have come before us. The Duke’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that one person can have on the world around them, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share it with you. We hope that this article has provided a thoughtful and informative look at the life and legacy of the Duke of Roxburghe, and we wish him continued success and happiness in all his endeavors.
what are some lesser-known facts about the Duke of Roxburghe’s family history
- Early Origins: The title of Earl of Roxburghe was created in 1616, and the dukedom was elevated in 1707. The title is derived from the royal burgh of Roxburgh in the Scottish Borders, which was captured and destroyed by the Scots in 1460.
- Subsidiary Titles: The Duke of Roxburghe holds several subsidiary titles, including Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, Earl of Kelso, Earl Innes, Viscount Broxmouth, Lord Roxburghe, and Lord Ker of Cessford and Cavertoun. These titles are part of the peerage of Scotland, except for the Earldom of Innes, which belongs to the peerage of the United Kingdom.
- Line of Descent: The dukedom and its associated titles descend to heirs who shall inherit the earldom. The line of descent is specific and has been the subject of disputes and claims over the years. In 1812, the House of Lords ruled in favour of Sir James Innes-Ker, 6th Baronet, of Innes, rejecting claims by the heir female of the second earl and heir male whatsoever of the first earl.
- Chief of Clan Innes: The Duke of Roxburghe would be the Chief of Clan Innes, but cannot be so recognized as he retains the name Innes-Ker. This highlights the complex family history and the multiple titles held by the family.
- Traditional Burial Place: The traditional burial place of the Dukes of Roxburghe is the Roxburghe Memorial Cloister, also known as “Roxburgh Cloister,” which is located near Floors Castle, the family seat.
These lesser-known facts provide insight into the intricate family history and the significance of the title of the Duke of Roxburghe.
