Send-off was full of charming touches

THE Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral was dotted with poignant personal touches.

His casket was covered in his own standard and carried his sword, naval cap and a floral wreath. His cap, gloves and whip were neatly folded on a carriage he designed in tribute to the sport of carriage driving. His hearse passed by the all-metal vehicle, which was led there by fell ponies Balmoral Nevis and Notlaw Storm.

A red sugar-lump pot from which the Duke used to give the pair a treat after riding was also placed on the seat. And a brass clock, given to him by the Queen’s Royal Irish Hussars in 1978 to mark his 25 years as Colonel-in-Chief, was mounted in the front.

Philip took up carriage driving at 50 and would drive his team of fell ponies around the royal estates.