Tributes paid to Prince Philip across the West Midlands
His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh, passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle
Last updated 9th Apr 2021
Organisations, sports teams and politicians across the West Midlands have been paying tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh, who has died at the age of 99.
Emergency services in the region are paying their respects too.
In a tweet, Anthony Marsh, CEO of West Midlands Ambulance said “We're saddened to hear that HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, has passed away. He stood alongside Her Majesty The Queen as a figurehead of this country, representing the monarchy with pride."
Hereford and Worcester Fire Service will also be paying their respects. Chief Fire Officer, Jon Pryce, has confirmed that the flags at their headquarters will be lowered to half-mast today.
Prince Philip, 99, was the longest-serving consort in British history.
The duke and the Queen were married for more than 70 years and Philip dedicated decades of his life to royal duty, serving the nation at the monarch’s side.
He officially retired from public engagements in the summer of 2017.
Her Majesty the Queen is Patron of the Royal Shakespeare Company which is based in Stratford-Upon-Avon. A spokesperson from the RSC said "We are saddened to hear the news of the death of HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and our thoughts are with his family, and particularly our Patron, Her Majesty the Queen and our President, HRH The Prince of Wales.
"The Duke last visited the Royal Shakespeare Company on 4 March 2011 when he accompanied Her Majesty the Queen for the formal opening of the transformed Royal Shakespeare Theatre, a memorable day in the history of the Company that we were all so pleased to share with him."
Bromsgrove MP, Sajid Javid said "He made me so incredibly proud to be British."
Other politicians in the region also say they're saddened to hear the news.
In a statement, Redditch MP, Rachel Maclean said "What an incredible life of service and legacy to our nation. I think of the enormous numbers of young people who have done Duke of Edinburgh awards and had life changing experiences they would never otherwise had."
Coventry MP, Taiwo Owatemi said she was "grateful for all he has given to our country" and that Prince Philip "dedicated his life to public service".
Aston Villa say the "thoughts of everyone at the club are with Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family".
Wasps Rugby, who are based at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry say they are "saddened to learn of the passing of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip".
Matches have gone on today, including Worcestershire County Cricket, where a two minute silence was held this afternoon as they play Essex. Players and officials are wearing black armbands and flags at the New Road ground will be at half mast.
In a statement, the club said they were "deeply saddened" by the Duke of Edinburgh's passing.