Valley pays its own tribute to the Duke
TRIBUTES have been paid in the Valley after the death of “extraordinary” Prince Philip at the age of 99.
As a sign of respect, the Union Flag on the official flagpole in St Mary’s Memorial Gardens, Rawtenstall, will be flying at half-mast until after the funeral.
In a statement, Rossendale council said: “It is with great sadness that we were notified of the death of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. His length of service to the country and support to the Queen is recognised by communities across the country. We remember the Duke for his longstanding service to the country.
“Our thoughts are with Her Majesty the Queen at this sad time.”
Rossendale’s Mayor Coun Barbara Ashworth said: “Our thoughts go out to Her Majesty the Queen and the rest of the Royal family at this sad time. The Duke of Edinburgh’s interest in conservation, engineering and in founding The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which continues to help so many of our young people, is commendable and his loss will be sorely felt. Condolences are expressed on behalf of the people of Rossendale.”
MP Jake Berry said it was “very sad news”.
He said: “He was an extraordinary man who led an extraordinary life and dedicated decades of service to our country.
“My thoughts are with Her Majesty the Queen and her family who have lost not only a much loved and respected public figure but also a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.”
Rossendale council leader Coun Alyson Barnes said: “It is with sadness I heard of the passing of the Duke of Edinburgh. His decades of public service and support for the Queen is widely recognised in Rossendale.”
If you wish to sign the book of condolence you can do so at http://bit.ly/ HRHbookofcondolence