Charles’s aide and a very odd friendship

ONE is Prince Charles’s controversial but indispensable retainer and former valet, the other is socialite Petra Ecclestone’s ex-husband — known for his flamboyant lifestyle.

While royal courtier Michael Fawcett, 55, right, and James Stunt, far right — the 36-yearold godson of former criminal gang boss Terry Adams — would not appear to have much in common, I hear that they have become close chums.

So close, indeed, that discussions have been held about Stunt lending works from his art collection to display at Dumfries House, Charles’s stately home in Scotland which Fawcett runs.

The move would be extraordinary as Charles is the heir to the largest private art collection in the world and would seem to have little need for more paintings.

However, Kenneth Dunsmuir, executive director of Dumfries House Trust, confirms it accepts loans from donors who ‘prefer to remain anonymous’.

Stunt’s ostentatious habits, such as being driven round London in a cavalcade of luxury cars, annoyed his former father-in-law, ex-Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone, but perhaps they appeal to Fawcett. After all, Charles is hardly known for his frugality.