Queen picks the first black equerry: Ghanaian-born officer will be the most visible man by Her Majesty's side as Prince Philip's retirement looms

The Queen has picked the first black man to hold the role of equerry, one of the most important positions in the royal household. Ghanaian-born Major Nana Kofi Twumasi-Ankrah (pictured left at Royal Ascot in 2015 and right, during Trooping The Colour in 2010), an Afghanistan war veteran and officer from the Household Cavalry, is thought to be preparing to take over the role from Wing Commander Sam Fletcher later this year. Twumasi-Ankrah's royal career so far has included acting as escort commander at the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall's wedding in 2011, as well as commanding the Blues and Royals at the Queen's birthday parade.