The Duke of Edinburgh sadly passed away this morning.
Following a number of weeks in hospital, Prince Philip has sadly died, aged 99. Announcing the news this afternoon, Buckingham Palace said in a statement:
“It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.”
The Duke was married to Queen Elizabeth for over 70 years, making him the longest-serving consort in the history of the British Monarchy. Together, they were set to celebrate the Duke’s 100th birthday this June. Prince Philip stepped back from public engagements back in 2017 as a result of gradually deteriorating health and was treated for an infection in hospital earlier this year. Despite stepping back, Prince Philip maintained his role as head of the family, taking care of internal matters alongside the Queen.
The Queen is set to finalise plans for the Duke’s funeral over the coming days, and it is understood that he will receive a royal ceremonial funeral, rather than a state funeral, as per his wishes.
Flags on landmark buildings have been lowered to half-mast this morning to pay respects to the beloved Duke, who was well-liked by the public due to his dry sense of humour.
The Royal Family will now enter a 30-day grieving period, which will see state affairs suspended as a mark of respect.
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