Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters
From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today
Tributes have been paid to the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, who has died at the age of 99.
In a statement, Buckingham Palace confirmed “His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning [April 9] at Windsor Castle”.
The Senedd is being recalled on Monday (April 12) to pay tribute to the Duke, with flags being flown at half-mast across the Senedd and an online condolences book being opened.
Wales’ First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “Throughout his long and distinguished life, he served the crown with selfless devotion and generosity of spirit.
“We offer our sincere condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, his children and their families on this sad occasion.
“He will be missed by the many organisations that he supported as Patron or President over many decades of service”.
Labour, Plaid Cymru and the Conservatives have all suspended their Senedd Election campaigning.
Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price said: “On behalf of Plaid Cymru, I send my condolences to Her Majesty the Queen and her family.
“Many young people in Wales will have benefited from the Duke of Edinburgh’s award scheme, a reflection of many decades of his public service. Thoughts are with the Royal Family at this time.”
Andrew RT Davies, leader of the Welsh Conservatives, also paid tribute, saying: “Prince Philip led a remarkable life and dedicated decades of public service to our United Kingdom and Commonwealth of Nations, whilst the Duke of Edinburgh programme helped so many young people.
“Britain – along with people across the world – will mourn his loss.”
Councillor Philippa Marsden, leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, said the Duke’s death “will be a huge loss for our nation”
She added: “His dedicated service to the Royal Family and his commitment to serving the country as part of his Naval career, where his active service during the second world war helped shape the world for future generations.”
John Davies, the Archbishop of Wales, said: “The Duke of Edinburgh is, perhaps, most prominently remembered in popular consciousness and the affections of the wider public for two particular reasons: first because of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme
“Secondly, he is remembered because of some of those unofficial, off-the-cuff remarks and comments with which the Duke has become associated over a number of years – ‘glorious gaffes’ they have been dubbed by some.
“Such remarks and comments were demonstrative of a man, endowed with sharp wit and no small amount of humour.”
The High Sheriff of Gwent, Phillip Alderman, said: “Today, we join the Royal Family and millions of people across the world to mourn the loss of an extraordinary man, who devoted his life to public service and helping others.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family at this sad time.”