North East pays tribute to Duke of Edinburgh

Readers across the region have united to pay tribute to Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, following his death at the age of 99.

Prince Philip was the longest-serving consort in British history. He and the Queen were married for more than 70 years.

As news of his passing broke, dozens of you got in touch to share your own tributes.

Here is the Buckingham Palace statement, released at midday on Friday, April 9, in full.

“It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” it said.

“His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.

“Further announcements will made in due course.

“The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer were among those sharing tributes on social media as the Palace statement was made.

Mr Johnson said: “We are a kingdom both united in grief and gratitude; grief at Prince Philip’s passing, and gratitude for his decades of selfless service to the country.”

Here are some of your messages from our social media pages:

Claire Spencer: “So sad. Sending condolences to the Royal Family. Glad he was at home not in hospital.”

Debbie Boulton: “RIP sir, such sad news my heart goes out to the Royal Family.”

Elaine Bell: “So very sad, he served the Queen and our county absolutely amazingly. RIP Prince Philip. Sending deepest condolences.”