South Shields town hall flies flag at half mast to honour Prince Philip as South Tyneside mourns his loss

The Royal Family has confirmed the Queen’s husband died on April 9 at Windsor Castle aged 99.

Tributes in the borough have been led by the Mayor of South Tyneside Councillor Norman Dick, who extended his sympathy while also praising the Duke of Edinburgh’s role in public life.

Cllr Dick said: “As the longest serving consort of a reigning British monarch, His Royal Highness has been a steadfast support, strength and guide to Her Majesty The Queen for more than seven decades.

“He dedicated his life to his Queen and country and to the Commonwealth.

“Our sorrow will be shared by people across the world, including the many good causes with which he was associated.”

The Duke had returned to Windsor Castle in March, following a stay in hospital, in London.

The former Royal Navy officer, who married the then Princess Elizabeth in 1947, officially retired from royal duties in 2017.

Following the news, tributes have been paid from across the UK and the rest of the world.

Cllr Dick said the council was now looking at ways to honour the Queen’s consort, who he said would be fondly remembered in the borough by many.

“I’m sure the communities of South Tyneside will unite in their thoughts to remember such a prominent figure in the Royal Family and to reflect on the times he visited the borough on official engagements,” he said.

“The flags are flying at half-mast on key buildings and details of the arrangements in place for local residents to pay tribute to High Royal Highness will be available soon.

“Meanwhile our thoughts and condolences are with members of the Royal Family at this saddest of times.”

South Tyneside College has also lowered its flags in tribute to the Duke, who officially opened the college in 1964 and visited again in 2005.

Lowering flags is a traditional way to honour notable people.

Flags at South Shields town hall are also used to show support particular causes or mark occasions and special dates.

Recently, the flag of Bangladesh was flown to mark the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence day.

An NHS flag was also raised at the town hall at the onset of the pandemic to show support for key workers.

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