Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh and longest-serving consort in British history, has died peacefully at Windsor Castle at the age of 99, just two months before his 100th birthday. The Queen announced her "deep sorrow" as she confirmed his death on Friday morning, following a recent hospital stay for a pre-existing heart condition and an infection.
Buckingham Palace released a statement at midday saying: "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. Further announcements will be made in due course. The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss."
In line with his final wishes, Prince Philip will not have a state funeral. The ceremony will take place at St George's Chapel, with restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic limiting mourners to 30 and requiring social distancing. The public has been asked not to gather or attempt to attend any events, and an online book of condolence has been opened. The Royal Family urged people to donate to charity instead of leaving floral tributes.
Prince Charles paid tribute to his father, saying: "His energy was astonishing in supporting my mama, and doing it in such a long time. What he's done amounts to an astonishing achievement." Princess Anne added: "Without him life will be completely different." Prince Edward recalled his father's "wonderful" sense of humour and praised his parents' "fantastic" marriage.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry shared a poignant message on their Archewell website: "In loving memory of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh. 1921 - 2021." The Duke's funeral arrangements are codenamed Forth Bridge, and official flags will fly at half-mast until the day after the service.
