Arrangements being made for Philip’s Covid compliant final farewell

Preparations for the Duke of Edinburgh’s carefully choreographed final sendoff are swiftly being put in place in St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle.

The Lord Chamberlain’s Office, led by the Queen’s Comptroller Lieutenant Colonel Michael Vernon, is tasked with the practical side of the day.

The department – usually based at Buckingham Palace which serves as monarchy HQ – will be issuing invitations to the 30 chosen guests, arranging the printing of the order of service and putting all the arrangements in place.

Officials have the added complication of ensuring the government’s coronavirus regulations – with two-metre social distancing and face masks worn inside places of worship – are adhered to before, during and after the funeral.

In overall charge is the new Lord Chamberlain, former MI5 spy chief Baron Parker of Minsmere.

The Archbishop of

Canterbury and the Dean of Windsor are preparing for their roles, while the military is practising for its key duties in the proceedings in honour of Philip’s own war service and his close links with the armed forces.

The Grenadier Guards and others from The Foot Guards, as well as the Royal Marines, the Household Cavalry, Royal Gurkha Rifles and a Royal Naval Piping Party of one chief petty officer and five ratings, are just some of those who will be taking part in the grounds of Windsor.

The modified Land Rover – which Philip helped to design – being used to transport the duke’s coffin will be serviced and tested.

Angela Kelly, the Queen’s senior dresser, personal assistant and close confidante, will be preparing the monarch’s black mourning ensembles, as will other household staff for the rest of the royal family – along with their necessary black face masks.