David Barclay, Secretive British Billionaire and Daily Telegraph Owner, Dies at 86
David built a joint fortune with his twin brother Frederick, with whom his family had recently sparred
David Barclay was knighted in 2000 along with his brother Frederick. Photo: michael stephens/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images By Jan. 13, 2021 8:40 am ET
LONDON David Barclay, the secretive British billionaire who, with his twin brother, built a property and media empire before a spectacular and public falling out, has died.
He was 86. A spokesman for his family confirmed the death but declined to comment further.
David and Frederick Barclay rose from an impoverished childhood in war-torn London to become two of Britain’s richest men, accumulating storied assets such as London’s Ritz Hotel and the Daily Telegraph, an influential conservative newspaper.
Charles surprised a group celebrating a 50th birthday
During his visit, Charles met members of the housemaids, concierge and restaurant teams and other staff under a large Christmas tree in the lobby.
He chatted to them for ten minutes about how the hospitality industry was faring, and thanked them for their tireless efforts, especially at this time of year .
Prince Charles chatted away
It was as he walked through the hotel towards the kitchens he met the 50th birthday group and they each received a celebratory elbow-bump from the heir to the throne.
The Ritz’s executive chef John Williams, who has prepared many meals for the royal family, introduced the prince to a range of staff including a large number of Italian workers.
Prince Charles surprises birthday party during visit to The Ritz msn.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from msn.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.