WIRRAL'S Mayor has lead the borough's tributes to HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, following his passing earlier today.
Councillor Tony Smith has written to Buckingham Palace to express his sorrow at the news.
In a letter to Prince Philip's Private Secretary, Brigadier Archie Miller-Bakewell, the Mayor wrote: "It is with great sadness that I write on behalf of the Council and people of Wirral to offer sincere condolences for the passing of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh."
HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
Cllr Smith's letter continued: "Appreciation for the extraordinary service he gave our nation is evidenced by the many heart-felt messages already left in Wirral Council’s online book of condolence.
"Please pass my deepest sympathy on to Her Majesty The Queen for her loss.
"With thanks for an exceptional life."
Also paying tribute was the leader of Wirral's Liberal Democrats, Phil Gilchrist. He said: "The late Duke will be remembered for the vision he had in founding the award scheme which bears his name,
That a scheme that has provided sixty years of support and character building for young people.
He was clearly devoted to public service and really interested in environmental issues at an early age
His bearing and manner of walking with his hands clasped behind his back always reminded me of my late father.
That always brought a smile to my face when I saw those film clips."
Following the announcement of Prince Philip’s death, Union flags at key Council buildings, including Birkenhead and Wallasey town halls, were lowered to half mast.
COVID-19 restrictions mean that public commemorations are not possible at the present time.
Residents are instead being invited to pay their respects by leaving a tribute in the borough’s online book of condolence at www.wirral.gov.uk.
A special telephone line is available for anyone wishing to leave a tribute, but is unable to do so online.
The line - 0151 606 2021 - is available from 10am to 2pm this Saturday and Sunday and 9am to 5pm from Monday until next Friday, April 16.
Floral tributes in memory of His Royal Highness can be left on the lawns in front of Birkenhead Town Hall.
It would be appreciated if cellophane and other wrappings were removed first to aid composting when the flowers are spent.
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