HRH The Duke of Edinburgh - Message from HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Chairman and Leader of Cumbria County Council
As the news travels of the death of HRH. The Duke of Edinburgh, Cumbria pays tribute to a Prince whose influence on our national life cannot be underestimated.
A number of flags located around the county will be flown at half-mast until 8am on the day following the ceremonial funeral.
In a warm and heartfelt tribute HM Lord- Lieutenant for Cumbria, Mrs Claire Hensman said:
"This is a day of great sadness as we mourn the death of The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, at the age of 99 years. Prince Philip only retired from most public engagements a few years ago at the remarkable age of 96. He was the mainstay of our Royal Family and we can be very grateful for his enduring and positive influence on our national life. Perhaps he will be best remembered for the 'Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme', something he started in 1956 and which has gone from strength to strength and stood the test of time. It is a scheme that has enriched young people's lives all over the world that is known and respected by millions, and with which he always maintained a very close involvement.
"The Duke was well known to us locally here in Cumbria: a keen carriage driver, he was a regular competitor in our County. His list of patronages also extends to a number of Cumbrian organisations, particularly the two Outward Bound Trust centres, which he visited regularly. The Duke will be greatly missed and our thoughts and sympathy are with Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family at this difficult and painful time."
Chair of Cumbria County Council, Councillor Christine Bowditch paying tribute to the Prince said:
"This is a day for national mourning as we come to terms with the death of Prince Philip. Our thoughts are of course with HM Queen Elizabeth, who has long been supported and cared for by this most loyal and supportive of Husbands: a man who showed her, and our country, unswerving commitment. She was able to count on his companionship throughout all and it is thanks to this union that we have seen years of steady and dedicated leadership from our Monarch. The Duke will be sadly missed and our thoughts and prayers are with all those that had the pleasure to know him."
Councillor Stewart Young, Leader of Cumbria County Council added:
"This is indeed a sad day and a day of national, and international mourning. The Duke's dedication and steadfastness to the country leaves a legacy that will not be forgotten. I want to pass on my sympathy, and the sympathy of Cumbria, to the Royal family whom we must also think of at this time of great personal loss".
