Philip was ‘most faithful consort of any British monarch’

Scotland’s royal clerical head has paid tribute to Prince Philip as the “most faithful consort that any British monarch could ever have hoped to have”.

The Very Rev Professor David Fergusson, Dean of the Chapel Royal in Scotland and Dean of the Order of the Thistle, said the Duke’s ties to Scotland “were no small part of his life” and he “truly loved” the Highlands.

The Chapel Royal is the ecclesiastical establishment which is part of the royal household.

“We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” said Prof Fergusson.

“He was a remarkable man who played a hugely significant role in supporting Her Majesty to fulfil the obligations and duties of the Monarch; prayers will be said throughout the Church of Scotland for Her Majesty and for all of the close family and friends for whom his loss will be deeply felt at this time.

“Much will be written about Prince Philip and much will be made of his candour and even of his occasionally outspoken views, but the lasting impression must be of the longest-serving and most faithful consort that any British monarch could ever have hoped to have by her side.

“Prince Philip’s ties to Scotland were no small part of his life. Part of his education was spent at Gordonstoun School.

“In 1956, he gave his name to the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme which has enhanced the life and experience of countless young people over more than 60 years.

“As chancellor of the University of Edinburgh (1953 to 2011), he took a lively interest in its work, becoming a regular visitor to its several campuses.

“He truly loved the

Scottish Highlands and shared with Her Majesty a passion for Balmoral together with a concern for its parish community.

“The royal couple were generous hosts to a succession of Church of Scotland ministers who were weekend house guests and visiting preachers at Crathie Kirk.

“Over the years he must have heard hundreds of sermons delivered by ministers and moderators – he listened keenly and many will remember their theme being picked over at the lunch table or in a latenight conversation.

“While we in the Church of Scotland acknowledge the contribution that Prince Philip has made to the fabric of our public life we know, however, that he will particularly be mourned as a husband, a father, a grandfather and a great-grandfather.

“Our prayers will be offered for those whose loss is more personal and profound, especially Her Majesty the Queen.”

The Dean of Her Majesty’s Chapel Royal is responsible for officiating at many major church services attended by members of the Royal Family, such as jubilees.

The Order of the Thistle is the greatest order of chivalry in Scotland, recognising Scottish men and women who have held public office or who have contributed in a particular way to national life.

The Very Rev Professor David Fergusson.