Prince Philip visited Jersey on seven occasions, the final time in 2005 for the 60th anniversary of Liberation, and was described as having served the Crown Dependencies with ‘distinction, energy and passion’.
Islanders were asked to lower flags to half-mast between 8am and 8pm until the day following the funeral.
The Lieutenant-Governor, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton, who represents the interests of the Crown in Jersey, released a statement yesterday, highlighting Prince Philip’s commitment to the numerous charitable and vocational organisations of which he was patron.
‘It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace has announced the death of His Royal Highness, the Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Prince Philip was an outstanding man who served Her Majesty the Queen, the nation and the people of Great Britain, Northern Ireland, the Crown Dependencies and the Commonwealth with distinction, energy and passion,’ he said.
‘His Royal Highness provided many charitable and vocational organisations, of which he was patron, with clear guidance, strong support and characteristic leadership. In particular, his own Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which he initiated as far back as 1956, continues to provide positive challenge, focus and adventure to many young people around the globe and is a very fine legacy of his character and commitment.
‘His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh visited Jersey on many occasions, most recently in 2005 and clearly enjoyed meeting so many Islanders on those visits. Today, on this sad occasion, our thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty the Queen and the other members of the Royal Family.’
The Bailiff, Timothy Le Cocq, paid tribute to Prince Philip’s memorable sense of humour and expressed the Island’s gratitude for his lifelong service.
‘I am saddened to hear news of the death of His Royal Highness the Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. We know of course that he was receiving recent medical care but that cannot fully prepare one for the loss of such an important figure.
‘He was known for his forthright speech and sense of humour and he will, I know, be missed. We are grateful for his life of service and there will be time on the future to reflect on that. At this time, though, our thoughts are with Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family in this time of loss and grief.’
The Bailiff’s Chambers have said that due to current Covid restrictions, there will be no books of condolence and Islanders are advised not to lay flowers until instructed to do so.
More tributes and pictures in Saturday’s JEP
