TRIBUTES have begun pouring in after it was announced that The Duke of Edinburgh has died.  

In a statement, Buckingham Palace announced that Prince Philip "passed away peacefully" at Windsor Castle this morning. 

The Duke had been married to Queen Elizabeth II for more than 70 years and was aged 99. 

Tributes have now begun pouring in after the announcement from the Palace. 

Southampton Itchen MP, Royston Smith said: "Such sad news. HRH, Duke of Edinburgh, has been a father figure to us all. RIP Prince Philip."

Caroline Dinenage, Gosport MP added: "Deeply saddened to hear that His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, has passed away after a lifetime of service to our country.

"My thoughts are with the Royal Family and Her Majesty The Queen during this incredibly difficult time."

The Union Jack Flag on Buckingham Palace is now flying at half mast following the Duke of Edinburgh's death. 

Paul Holmes, MP for Eastleigh said Prince Philip's death is a "deep loss."


He added: "My deep condolences to HM The Queen and the Royal Family.

"I once had the privilege of meeting Prince Philip, cheeky, mischievous and charming with public service running through his veins."

Hampshire police said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh.

"The Duke of Edinburgh was the longest-serving British consort and, on behalf of the whole Hampshire Constabulary police family, we send our condolences to the Royal Household."

Roy Perry, Romsey Rural County Councillor, Former MEP and Former Vice President Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, added: "I was fortunate to meet him a number of times and was honoured when the Lord Lieutenant asked me to become one of the Vice Presidents of the Hampshire Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. That Award Scheme inspired so many young people.

"I once had the privilege and pleasure to join him at his table for a charity lunch and got a flash of his sense of humour. After the Loyal Toast one of the guests at our table leaned over to the Duke and said we should also drink a toast to your Royal Highness. He said “Please do- I am living proof that these toasts work!”

"My sincere condolences to Her Majesty and his family."