District councils fly flags at half mast in tribute after the death of Prince Philip

The two district councils which serve the Sleaford area have paid tribute to Prince Philip the Duke of Edinburgh on news of his death today (Friday) at the age of 99.
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The chairmen of both North and South Kesteven have expressed their sadness at his passing.

North Kesteven District Council chairman Coun Susannah Barker-Milan expressed her sorrow and condolences on behalf of the district on the death of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

Coun Barker-Milan said: “It is with much sadness that we have learned of the passing of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

The Queen and Prince Philip, pictured in 2009 EMN-210325-154020001The Queen and Prince Philip, pictured in 2009 EMN-210325-154020001
The Queen and Prince Philip, pictured in 2009 EMN-210325-154020001

“My sadness at this time is shared with members and officers of the council and, I am sure, all residents across the whole of North Kesteven district, as we remember with gratitude the service given by Prince Philip in support of the Queen, the nation and Commonwealth over 73 years of marriage. It is remarkable that he was just two months away from his 100th birthday in June.

“We remember especially his interest in Whisby Natural World Centre, which he officially opened in March 2001, his pioneering approach as an environmentalist and the inspiration and opportunity extended to hundreds of young people within the district through his Duke of Edinburgh Awards programme. He also visited the district frequently in a private capacity to visit at RAF College Cranwell.”

As a mark of respect the Union Flag will be flown at half-mast on the council flagstaff until the morning following the funeral.

There is a protocol for when the flag should be raised and lowered and the council will ensure that this is duly observed, as well as other considerations for the period of mourning.

In the current circumstances of the ongoing pandemic, it is not possible to host a physical book of condolence, but it is understood that an e-book of condolence will be made available on the Buckingham Palace website at www.royal.uk in due course.

Coun Barker-Milan added: “I would ask that, under the current restrictions, floral tributes are not placed at any remembrance site in the district. However, in lieu of this, I would suggest an online charitable donation to an appropriate cause if you wish.

“On behalf of the residents of North Kesteven, I shall be writing to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to express the sincere condolences and deepest regrets of our community at the passing of HRH Prince Philip.

“In all other respects the council will work with local and national organisations and agencies to ensure appropriate, proportionate and dignified arrangements are in place at this time of national mourning.”

Official condolences are also being sent to Buckingham Palace by South Kesteven District Council.

As a mark of respect, council Union Flags are being flown at half-mast until the morning following the Royal ceremonial funeral.

Chairman of South Kesteven District Council, Coun Breda Rae Griffin said: “It is with much sadness that we have learned of the passing of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.

“My sadness at this time is shared with members and officers of the council and, I am sure, South Kesteven district residents, as we remember with affection and gratitude the support and service given by His Royal Highness to Her Majesty the Queen.

“Prince Philip has been at the Queen’s side throughout her reign and has carried out numerous royal engagements on her behalf. As a district, we have all greatly valued his role, his contributions to national life, and his dutiful dignity.”

The Leader of the Council, Coun Kelham Cooke, said: “On behalf of South Kesteven District Council, I express our condolences to the Royal Family on the passing of His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. His Royal Highness epitomised a life of service and dedication, not only to our Sovereign, but to the armed forces, the voluntary sector, and Britain’s young people.

“The Youth Award Scheme in his name goes from strength to strength and continues to provide opportunities for so many. This, coupled with his brave and selfless heroism in the Royal Navy during the war and his active support of many good causes, provides a model of a life well-lived. His Royal Highness has left a lasting legacy of hope and opportunity which will illuminate the lives of future generations to come.

“We are very thankful for His Royal Highness’ service and legacy, and he will be long-remembered in the hearts of the people of South Kesteven.”

The council has organised its own district online book of condolence at www.tolbc.com/SouthKestevenHRHPP to ensure that it complies with the Government’s current Covid restrictions.

The Buckingham Palace online book of condolence is at https://www.royal.uk/

Floral tributes can be laid at the following locations within the district, observing social distancing. Grantham – St Peter’s Hill; Stamford – St Mary’s Church; Bourne – next to the War Memorial, Well Head, South Street; Market Deeping ­– Welland Gardens.

Signs are in place marking where the flowers should be left.

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