Shaun James Christian Wellbore Ellis Agar, the Earl of Normanton died at home surrounded by his family on Wednesday, he was 73.

Normanton was a former Household Cavalry officer who left the army in 1972 and enjoyed shooting, skiing, scuba diving and raced both in circuit and offshore powerboat racing.

He was a trustee of the Harmsworth Trophy and had been an active supporter of powerboat racing since the 1960’s.

He inherited Somerley House in 1968, a Grade II listed building that was the fictional home of tycoon Edward Frere, played by Nigel Davenport, in the long-running BBC television drama Howard’s Way.

There will be a private family funeral with a memorial service to be announced.