A funeral service that he tailor-made for himself

BORNE by a Land Rover and in the presence of his family and representatives of the military establishment that was so close to his heart, Philip’s body will be taken to the steps of St George’s Chapel, Windsor. Based on details released by Buckingham Palace yesterday, this is how his funeral service will then take place next Saturday afternoon.

1 The coffin, covered with Philip’s personal standard and a wreath of flowers, is borne by 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards from Windsor Castle’s private chapel.

2 2.40pm. It reaches the castle state entrance. Accompanying the coffin will be the Dean of Windsor and the Lord Chamberlain. Those gathered in the quadrangle ‘pay compliments’. Royal Marines place the coffin on a Land Rover. The procession sets off, led by Band of the Grenadier Guards, followed by the Major General’s Party and the Service Chiefs.

3 The route is lined by representatives of the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines, the Highlanders, 4th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland and the RAF. Minute guns are fired by the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery from the East Lawn. The Curfew Tower bell tolls.

4 2.53pm. The procession reaches St George’s Chapel West Steps. A Guard of Honour and Band from The Rifles receives the coffin at the foot of the steps. The National Anthem is played as the coffin enters Horseshoe Cloister. A bearing party of Royal Marines carries the coffin up the steps.

3pm. Pause for a minute’s silence. The Archbishop of Canterbury and Dean of Windsor receive the coffin. Only members of the Royal Family and Philip’s private secretary, Archie MillerBakewell, enter the chapel. The Service begins with the coffin carried to the catafalque in the Quire.