Local leaders pay tribute following death of Prince Philip

Local leaders have offered their condolences to Her Majesty The Queen following today's announcement that the Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, has died.

The Royal Family announced today that Prince Philip – the Queen's husband of 73 years – died this morning aged 99.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon, said: "It is with very great sadness that we have heard of the death of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

"It was in Devon as a young naval officer, training at Britannia Royal Naval College, that Prince Philip met and later married Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

"Not surprisingly, therefore, the county has been important to them both throughout their lives and since and they have visited us here many times.

"Prince Philip held many senior ranks and positions in his long life which included being the Lord High Steward of Plymouth, a post that he held from March 1960.

"He was also awarded an honorary degree from the University of Plymouth in 2012.

"Plymouth and nearby Bickleigh and Lympstone near Exeter, were regular destinations for him in the County until he retired from public duties in 2017.

"This is because His Royal Highness was the Captain General of the Royal Marines, a post he held for 64 years and in which capacity he visited many times, both publicly and in private.

"The Duke was also Colonel-in-Chief of successive Regiments that have made up The Rifles since 1953.

"Prince Philip was also the Patron and President of many of our county charities and they will all be very sad to hear of the news of his death.

"He had a particular interest in conservation of the environment, in scientific and technological research and in the encouragement of sport.

"He is perhaps best known however for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award which he founded 64 years ago and which has become the world's leading youth achievement award and is now in 140 countries around the world.

"He was a great man who contributed hugely to our Country and our County; a constant and loyal support to her Majesty and he did all this while demonstrating a genuine interest in people and with a wonderful sense of humour which was so often on display.

"We give thanks for a wonderful life. May he rest in peace."

The chairman of Devon County Council, Cllr Stuart Barker, said: "It is with great sadness that we hear of the death of His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

"On behalf of the people of the County of Devon, I convey that sadness and send our deepest sympathies to the Royal Family.

"Prince Philip visited Devon on many occasions, and we especially remember the visit with Her Majesty the Queen as part of their Diamond Jubilee tour.

"The Duke was much loved in Devon and admired across the country and the wider Commonwealth in the course of his public duties.

"His contribution and dedication in the service of the country, and his unwavering support to Her Majesty was, and will continue to be, an example to us all."

East Devon District Council chair Cathy Gardner said: "The sad death of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh was announced today, after he passed away peacefully this morning. Our thoughts are with Her Majesty the Queen and all members of the Royal Family at this time.

"The Duke gave many years of service to this country and was a constant companion to the Monarch. He will be greatly missed.

"As a mark of respect all Union Jack flags on East Devon land will be lowered to half-mast including at EDDC's headquarters Blackdown House, Exmouth Town Hall, Connaught Gardens in Sidmouth and on the seafront at Budleigh Salterton and Exmouth.

"EDDC'S flagpole on Sidmouth seafront was recently broken and staff are working hard to fix this as soon as possible.

"Due to the current climate and Covid-19 guidance, those wanting to pay their respect can sign the Palace E-book of Condolence. Those who do not have access to the internet can call the council's switchboard on 01404 515616 and a member of staff will add their message.

"Further information will be forthcoming on details once released from the Palace.

"During this time the Royal Family ask that members of the public consider making a donation to a charity instead of leaving floral tributes in memory of The Duke of Edinburgh.

"I have also sent a letter of condolence to Her Majesty The Queen on behalf of the residents of East Devon.

"During the coronavirus pandemic, and in light of current Government advice and social distancing guidelines, modified funeral and ceremonial arrangements for His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh are being considered by Her Majesty The Queen. Details will be confirmed in due course.

"In accordance with public health advice, members of the public are asked to continue to follow the current Government guidance, not to gather in crowds, and not to visit Royal residences to pay their respects.

"EDDC's website has been updated with a tribute expressing the sadness of the council and the people of East Devon following the news of the Duke's death along with all the information above. It will also be updated as further information is released by the Palace.

"It is likely EDDC will cancel all of its meetings next week as a mark of respect."