Prince Philip: Mayor of Scarborough pays tribute on behalf of borough council

Prince Philip died today "peacefully" at the age of 99 at Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace has confirmed.

On behalf of the whole council and reflecting the sentiments of many of the borough’s communities, the Mayor of the Borough of Scarborough, Cllr Hazel Lynskey, said: “We are all deeply saddened to learn of the death of The Duke of Edinburgh

"As we reflect, with gratitude, on his selfless dedication to duty and service, our thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family at this time of personal and national sorrow. We will send a special letter of condolence to Buckingham Palace to convey our sentiments to them directly.

Cllr Hazel Lynskey met the Duke the very first day she became mayor as he accompanied the Queen to the opening of the Open Air Theatre.

“I have fond memories of The Duke of Edinburgh’s visit to the borough in 2010, when he attended the official opening of Scarborough Open Air Theatre with Her Majesty The Queen.

"A wonderful day was had by all who attended and the Royal couple certainly seemed to enjoy the fantastic musical performances and the wonderful atmosphere created by all those who packed out the theatre to welcome them.

"It was a day on which lifetime memories were created and one I will always remember fondly.”

A council spokesperson said anyone wishing to lay floral tributes in memory of The Duke of Edinburgh is welcome to do so on the lawn in the Town Hall gardens below the balcony, which is located at the side of the Town Hall buildings in Scarborough.

The council kindly asks people laying flowers to stay safe and keep socially distanced from others.

The country will now enter what’s known as a “national mourning period”.

Flags will be lowered to half-mast, with the exception of the Royal Standard flag flying above Buckingham Palace as this flag represents the monarchy and is never lowered.

Local governments will be asked to give ‘careful thought’ to continuing official business.

The council is waiting to see whether a national e-condolence book will be set up for members of the public to sign.