Sunderland landmarks to be lit purple in respect for Prince Philip

Landmarks and lighting features across Sunderland will be lit purple on Saturday evening as a mark of respect for His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh.

National Trust owned Penshaw Monument, Northern Spire bridge, Hylton Castle, The Beacon of Light, Keel Square, the white lighthouse at Seaburn, Fulwell Mill, Market Square and High Street West will be lit up purple from dusk on Saturday.

Sunderland will also join the nation in observing a minute’s silence in memory of His Royal Highness at the start of his funeral service at Saint George’s Chapel, Windsor at 3pm the same day. While Union flags which were lowered following Prince Philip’s death last Friday, will remain at half mast until 8am on Sunday.

The Right Worshipful Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor David Snowdon, said:

"The Duke of Edinburgh played a huge role in this life of this country for more than 70 years so it’s entirely right that we should mark his death in this way.

"Many aspects of his extraordinary life have only come to the fore since his death. He was also a man of wide ranging interests which included everything from the welfare of young people, the environment, wildlife and industry to naval history, painting and birdwatching.

"But it is his steadfast support for Her Majesty The Queen in his role as the longest serving consort in British history that The Duke of Edinburgh will be best remembered for.

"He also touched the hearts of people in Sunderland during his frequent visits to our city over the years. Many will remember The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh opening the new Winter Gardens in 2002, and their visit to the Port of Sunderland during The Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

"Others will recall His Royal Highness visiting Washington Wetlands Centre in 2005, while those whose memories stretch back a bit further may remember him opening University's Edinburgh Building in 1964 when it was still Sunderland College or may have seen the video footage from that day.

“Prince Philip also leaves a lasting legacy in the form of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme, which he himself so wonderfully described as 'a DIY growing up kit'. Generations of young people across our city have been helped to get the most out of life thanks to the award with its emphasis on skills, confidence and resilience. These qualities will live on in the hearts of all those who have taken part in the scheme for many years to come.

"So I hope people across the city will join me in taking a moment to pause and remember Prince Philip at 3pm on Saturday and to also think of the Royal Family at this very sad time."

On Friday at 6pm the Mayor will join the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear and a small invited congregation at Sunderland Minster for a Service of Evening Prayer to remember and celebrate the life of His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Phillip.

The service will be led by the Provost The Revd Canon Stuart Bain. The service will be live streamed on Sunderland Minster's YouTube Channel.

Anyone wishing to leave tributes can still do so on the book of condolence available on the The Royal Family's website.