Remembering HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh

Remembering HRH The Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh

Today the country mourns the passing of HRH The Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh. Ridgewell, like other parishes, towns and cities across the Commonwealth, remembers the man who long before similar slogans were commonplace, was the epitome of “just get on with it.”

As a young boy he was sent to Germany, then England and finally Scotland for his education, where he was taught by the Jewish refugee, Kurt Hahn. This inspired the young Prince to join the Royal Navy in order to fight Nazism.

In 1952 he renounced all of his own Royal titles and patronage in order to be subservient to the one true love of his life; a woman whom he would be with for 74 years. He suffered great personal family tragedies, including the murder of his guardian, Lord Mountbatten, in his life but retained a stoic dignity throughout.

He was the patron of 800+ charities, founded the Duke of Edinburgh awards that over 6 million children have benefited from, and was an architect of the World Wildlife Fund for nature. Abrasive and 'of his time' maybe but he was a brilliant, clever, witty man who left an indelible mark on all those he met.

A hero to many in Africa who he supported in the betterment of education and welfare for all. A legend to members of the Armed Forces who respected his leadership, bravery in combat and understanding of his soldiers. He attended over 22,000 public engagements in his working life, all to ensure the embetterment of others.

A lifetime of service to the nation.

Rest in peace.

See how you can make your tribute in his memory.

Online Book of Condolence

You can contribute to Buckingham Palace’s e-Book of Condolence on The British Monarchy (royal.uk)