Tributes have been pouring in from across Lancashire for Prince Philip following his death today at 99 years old.

Preston City Council have announced that the Union flags will be flown half-mast as a mark of respect to His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh.

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Mayor of Preston, Councillor David Borrow said: “Today we join with cities around the UK and Commonwealth in expressing our sadness at the passing of His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh.

“On behalf of the city of Preston I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty the Queen, and the whole Royal Family at this very sad time.

“We will remember with affection the significant work His Royal Highness undertook during his 73 years as consort of the Her Majesty on behalf of the nation and Commonwealth.

“His considerable achievement and a lasting legacy in founding the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme which has enabled millions of young people around the world to develop important life skills is of great significance.

“We also remember with gratitude his active service with the Royal Navy throughout the Second World War.

“His visit to Preston with Her Majesty the Queen in 2002 as part of the celebrations of the granting of city status to Preston as part of the celebrations of Her Majesty’s Golden Jubilee is remembered fondly by very many Prestonians.”

County Councillor Susie Charles, Chairman of Lancashire County Council, has paid tribute to His Royal Highness following the announcement of his death by Buckingham Palace today: “We share the country’s deep sadness at the death of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, who served his country with dignity for more than 60 years alongside Queen Elizabeth II.

“Thousands of people saw The Duke, along with the Queen, on many official Royal visits, including most recently to celebrate the 750th anniversary of the Duchy of Lancaster, and when he accompanied The Queen and His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales on a visit to Burnley and Accrington to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year.

“Prince Philip made a tremendous contribution to our communities through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, which provides vital opportunities to young people across Lancashire.

“The Duke of Edinburgh was deeply respected by people across the county and will be sadly missed.”

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Lord Shuttleworth said: “Everyone in Lancashire will join me in expressing our sorrow at the death of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, who has played a prominent role in the life of our nation for almost 75 years.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to those who have suffered the greatest loss, Her Majesty The Queen, Duke of Lancaster, The Prince of Wales and all members of The Duke’s family, and we think of all others affected personally by this sad news.

“We also recollect all the marvellous work of HRH, not only at the side and in support of The Queen, but in his own right as leader and influencer of so many organisations and charities.

“We here in Lancashire will have our own memories of his visits to the county and his encouragement to so many people on those occasions.”

Preston City Council leader councillor Matthew Brown said: “So sorry to hear about the passing of Prince Phillip. I know everyone in Preston values his lifetime of public service and commitment.”

Chorley and Royal Preston Hospital said: “We join our NHS colleagues and the nation in sending our deepest condolences to the Royal Family on the passing of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.”

To sign an electronic book of condolence and find out more about how Lancashire will be marking the death of HRH Prince Philip, visit here.

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