READERS’ TRIBUTES TO DUKE
READERS SIGN ONLINE BOOK OF CONDOLENCE AS QUEEN’S HUSBAND IS LAID TO REST
READERS of the Burton Mail have paid tribute to Prince Philip in an online book of condolence.
The prince’s funeral took place on Saturday in St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle and was watched by people across the world.
Within a few hours of its launch, nearly 9,000 people had signed the online book, which the Burton Mail’s owner, Reach Plc, hopes will offer some comfort to the Queen and the rest of the Royal Family following the prince’s death.
Jacqueline Bailey, of Burton, said: “I’m so sorry for the loss of Prince Phillip. My heart does out to the Queen and the royal family and I’m keeping them in my prayers. I loved his great sense of humour and devotion to this country.”
Paul Maxim, of Burton, said: “You will be missed not only by your family but many millions of people around the world.”
Alison Chance, of Stapenhill, said: “So very sad. My condolences to Her Majesty and her family. A lovely man who will be deeply missed. RIP Prince Philip.”
Kerry Smith, of Tatenhill, said: “RIP Prince Philip. You have been a wonderful consort to our queen and a mjaor role model to the royal family members. God save the Queen.”
The Morris family, of Hilton, said: A sadness has appeared in the hearts of the nation, the time has come to say goodbye. You have left a legacy for others to follow. Now rest. for your work is done. Thank you.”
Barbara Wharrier, of Ashby, said: “We were sad to hear of the death of Prince Phillip. He has been a constant in our lives for so long and has given so much to this country and the wider world. Our sincere sympathy goes to his family.” J Clarke, of Swadlincote, said: “So really sad to hear HRH the Duke Of Edinburgh has passed. The Queen and the Duke have been a constant inspiration to us all for many years. A very sad time indeed. RIP Your Highness.”
Vanessa Sumner, of Uttoxeter, said: “There was so much more to Prince Philip than just what you saw. He was loved, adored and will always be in the hearts of his wife the Queen and his children, grandchildren and his extended family. RIP.”
The royal family will continue to grieve this week following the funeral, although the period of national mourning has ended. After almost 70 years as head of state, the Queen will reign without her husband by her side, as she sat on her own during the funeral service that bore Philip’s touch and celebrated his life and legacy.
The ceremony at Windsor Castle reflected Philip’s lifelong support of the armed forces,, having had a close connection with the Navy for more than 80 years.
His coffin, draped with his personal standard, featured his admiral of the fleet naval cap and sword next to a wreath of white flowers chosen by the Queen with a handwritten card from his wife of 73 years.
Charles was joined by the Princess Royal, Duke of York and Earl of Wessex as they walked behind Philip’s coffin – which was carried by a Land Rover Defender hearse he helped design – during the funeral procession. Following closely behind were the Duke’s grandsons the Duke of Sussex, Duke of Cambridge and Peter Phillips, and Vice Admiral Tim Laurence, the Princess Royal’s husband, and the Queen’s nephew the Earl of Snowdon.
Harry and William – who have a troubled relationship – were separated by their cousin Peter Phillips. After the service, the siblings walked back up the hill to the castle in conversation and seemed to have put any differences aside.
Judi James, author and body language expert, said the royals appeared “surprised at how hard Philip’s death had hit them” during the service. She described the Queen as looking “very vulnerable and frail” while her son the Prince of Wales became “isolated in his own grief” as the funeral continued.
At 3pm on Saturday the nation came to a halt to observe a minute’s silence in memory of the duke, who was 99.
The country was in national mourning from Philip’s death on April 9 until and including the day of the funeral. To leave a tribute to the duke, you will find the condolence book at www.princephilipcondolences.co.uk.
So really sad to hear HRH the Duke of Edinburgh has passed. A very sad time indeed.
J Clarke