Diana's ex-butler arrested

The couple received the present for their 1981 wedding

A former butler to Diana, Princess of Wales, has been arrested over the alleged theft of a £1m wedding present given to her and Prince Charles.

Harold Brown has been questioned about a jewel-encrusted model ship.

The ornament was a gift from the Emir of Bahrain when the royal couple married in 1981, and was one of the Princess's most treasured wedding presents.

It is believed to have disappeared from her apartment at Kensington Palace days after her death three years ago.

Mr Brown, 48, is said to have been laid off by the Princess, and was later taken on by Princess Margaret, for whom he still works.

Second arrest

He was released on police bail after his arrest on Tuesday, pending further inquires.

A 50-year-old man was arrested in connection with handling stolen goods, and was also released on police bail.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: "We understand that a member of staff is helping police with their inquiries.

"Anything further is a matter for the police."

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "Following receipt of information, the Metropolitan Police Service has launched an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the alleged disappearance of an artefact from a location in central London."