The Duke and The Queen at the opening of The Cresset. Pic: The CressetThe Duke and The Queen at the opening of The Cresset. Pic: The Cresset
The Duke and The Queen at the opening of The Cresset. Pic: The Cresset

Peterborough tributes to Duke of Edinburgh following announcement of his death

People from across Peterborough and Cambridgeshire have paid tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh following his death.

The Duke died this morning aged 99, Buckingham Palace has announced.

Julie Spence, Lord Lieutenant, of Cambridgeshire, Her Majesty The Queen’s representative in the county said: “The people of Cambridgeshire join with others around the world to send their deepest condolences to Her Majesty and the Royal Family who are mourning the loss of a dear husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and one of the greatest statesmen this country has ever known.”

The Very Revd Chris Dalliston, Dean of Peterborough, said: “The Duke of Edinburgh served the nation with enormous distinction since his marriage to the, then, Princess Elizabeth in 1947.

“Patron to over 780 organisations and Chairman of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, his sense of duty and commitment to the common good have, throughout his long life, been a remarkable counterpoint to the Queen’s own devoted service to the nation.

“The Prince had something of a reputation for being outspoken and his career was not without moments of controversy, but today we celebrate the life and mourn the passing of a man whose dedication, faithfulness and strength of character have for over 70 years been a pillar, not only of the Royal Family, but of our country and the Commonwealth. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.”

The flag was flying at half mast outside Peterborough Town Hall this afternoon in tribute.

A Peterborough City Council spokesman said; “It is with deep regret that we received the news of the death of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.

“Our thoughts are with our Queen and his family, who are mourning the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.”

Peterborough MP Paul Bristow said: “Terribly sad news for the Royal Family and for our country. A lifetime of service to the U.K. and the Commonwealth. Deepest condolences to Her Majesty the Queen, and her family.”

North West Cambridgeshire MP Shailesh Vara said: “HRH The Duke of Edinburgh gave a life of service to our nation and the Commonwealth. He led an extraordinary life, and was one of the few people still with us who served in the Second World War.

“Of his many achievements, one of the most visible is the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme which has helped and inspired generations of young people.

“I was privileged to meet him on a few occasions, and always found him to be warm, witty, and humorous.

“He gave steadfast support to Her Majesty the Queen for over seventy years and the nation’s condolences go out to Her Majesty and the Royal Family. May he rest in peace.”

Cllr Shaz Nawaz, leader of the Labour Party in Peterborough said: “Thoughts with HM Queen and the Royal Family. Deepest condolences on behalf of Peterborough Labour.”

Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough James Palmer said; “Very sad to hear the passing of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. A man who gave his whole life to public service in support of his wife. He will be greatly missed.”

Nick Dean, chief constable of Cambridgeshire police said: “It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. His Royal Highness was a naval war hero who bravely served this country through the military and then for more than 70 years as the husband of our monarch, Queen Elizabeth.

“Prince Philip was an example of how to conduct your life in service of the public and showed huge dedication to both Queen and country. His contribution to this country will never be forgotten.

“Our thoughts are with Her Majesty the Queen at this time and also Prince Philip’s family and friends.A spokesman for the North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Peterborough City Hospital, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear that His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, has passed away.

“Our thoughts are with Her Majesty The Queen and The Royal Family at this sad time.”

A spokesman for The Royal Family said: “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces 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.

“Further announcements will made in due course.

“The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.”

The Duke did not make many visits to Peterborough in recent years.

He did visit the city in 1963, when he spent some time on The Embankment, speaking to youngsters.

He also joined The Queen in the city in 1978, for the grand opening of The Cresset.

A spokesperson for The Cresset said; “We are so saddened to hear the news about the passing of the Duke of Edinburgh.

“Prince Philip joined us for our grand opening in 1978 along with Her Majesty The Queen.

“Our condolences and thoughts are with HM The Queen and the Royal Family at this time.”If you wish to pay your tributes to the Duke, email [email protected]

The Very Revd Chris Dalliston, Dean of Peterborough, said: “The Duke of Edinburgh served the nation with enormous distinction since his marriage to the, then, Princess Elizabeth in 1947.