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A display of respect has been created at the foot of Seaham’s Tommy following the death of the Duke of Edinburgh.
People have been invited to add a pebble to the tribute spelling out HRH RIP laid out in front of the Terrace Green artwork.
It has been set up by Seaham Remember Them Fund’s leader Dave McKenna, who has organised a series of events in recognition of the military and works with veterans in the area.
Prince Philip, who was married to the Queen for 73 years, died on Friday, April 9, aged 99.
He had joined the Royal Navy at 17 and saw action in the Second World War and reached the rank of commander, with his role brought to an end as he became her consort.
His funeral, to be televised, will take place on Saturday, at 3pm in St George’s Chapel in Windsor Palace, with a national minute’s silence held as it begins.
Dave, who served as a Colour Sergeant in the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, said: “The idea behind it is because of the Covid restrictions and also to respect the Queen and the Royal Family’s wishes for no gatherings.
"We wanted to do something as a community and as a town, young and old, to place a pebble as a mark of respect for Prince Philip.
"I went down this morning and it’s looking good. I know people, especially our Armed Services veterans, will support it.” The display is expected to remain in place for a few days after the funeral.
Civic leaders across County Durham will play a part in remembering Prince Philip this weekend.
Councillor Katie Corrigan, the Chairman of Durham County Council, will lead a one-minute silence at County Hall, Durham, at 3pm on Saturday.
The event will be broadcast live via the council’s Facebook page, allowing members of the public to join in without attending the event.
Coun Corrigan will be joined by Major Chris Lawton, Deputy Lieutenant of County Durham, and John Hewitt, the council’s interim Chief Executive.
People can leave tributes via the Royal Family’s website at www.royal.uk/condolence and it is asked they consider making a donation to a charity instead of leaving floral tributes, with more information at www.royal.uk/donations.