Death of His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh

It has been announced by Buckingham Palace that His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh has passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.

Convener of Orkney Islands Council, Councillor Harvey Johnston, expressed his deepest sympathies to Her Royal Highness Her Majesty the Queen and The Royal Family.

He said:

“The Council and the Orkney community join the nation in mourning for His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to all members of The Royal Family and honour his long service and duty to our country and Queen.

"Prince Phillip toured Orkney with the Queen in 1960, visiting Stromness, Skara Brae and Kirkwall before travelling aboard the Royal Yacht to Stronsay and Westray. It is very evident from photographs from that time just how much the Royal couple enjoyed their visit. A memorable occasion for all involved."

As a mark of respect, flags have been lowered to half mast at the Council offices in Kirkwall, at Kirkwall Town Hall and Community Centre and at the Harbour Authority building at Scapa.

An online Book of Condolence is available on the Buckingham Palace website.

As it would not be appropriate to open physical books of condolence during the pandemic, Buckingham Palace is asking that folk visit the website if they wish to send messages of condolence to Members of the Royal Family.

In Orkney, an online reflective service of thanksgiving, led by the Cathedral Minister the Rev Fraser Macnaughton, will be held after the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral has taken place.