Politians from across the region have been paying tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “On behalf of the people of Greater Manchester, I want to convey our deepest condolences to Her Majesty the Queen, her children, grandchildren and other members the Royal Family on the passing of His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh.
“Prince Philip gave a lifetime of service to our country and was an ever-present in our lives at the side of the Queen, representing all our nations and regions at countless engagements over the years.
“He made many visits to our city-region and his work touched the lives of so many people here. For many years, Prince Philip acted as Chancellor of the University of Salford, from the time of its Royal Charter in 1967 right through to 1991. He remained a keen follower of the university thereafter, returning to meet new generations of students at the state-of-the-art MediaCity campus in 2012.
“The Duke of Edinburgh’s lifelong commitment to public service will be remembered with gratitude across Greater Manchester.”
Bev Hughes, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester for Policing, Crime, Criminal Justice and Fire, added: “I would like to join the Mayor in expressing my condolences to Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family following the death of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
“As the longest-serving consort to a monarch in British history, His Royal Highness performed a vital public role in representing all parts the UK on Commonwealth tours and state visits overseas.
“At home, his work with charities and other organisations – as Patron, President or a member of more than 750 during his lifetime – shows how passionately he supported and endorsed causes close to his heart, including conservation, sport, design, engineering and the environment.
“Across Greater Manchester we will be paying tribute to His Royal Highness, and we will always remember his achievements and hard work in representing us, the people of this city-region.”
Dave Russel, Chief Fire Officer, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The sad news of the passing of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, is felt keenly by colleagues at GMFRS and emergency services across Greater Manchester.
“Flags will be at half-mast at our fire stations and our firefighters and other personnel will join citizens across our city-region in paying our respects. At this time, on behalf of this organisation, I would like to express my condolences to Her Majesty the Queen, the Royal Family and the friends of His Royal Highness.
“Our emergency service has been enriched over many years by the young people involved in His Royal Highness’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. Thousands of youngsters from across our city-region – like so many others across the country – have gained new skills and confidence, enriching their lives and our communities with their enthusiasm, commitment and leadership.
“At this sad time, those of us working for GMFRS are reminded of the values of public service exemplified by the life of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. His legacy of commitment to this country and the people living and working within it will be long-lasting, and his is an example we should aspire to mirror as we serve the people of Greater Manchester.”
Manchester Labour MP Lucy Powell said
“Very sad news. He really was a true public servant. One of his greatest legacies is the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme which has given millions of young people great life opportunities, volunteering experience and purpose.”
Barbara Keeley MP said:
Rest in Peace Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.Aremarkable life of service and support to HM the Queen. Deepest condolences to the Queen and her family.
Salford Mayor Paul Dannett tweeted:
“Our thoughts are with HM The Queen and all the Royal Family today following the sad passing of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. The Civic Mayor, myself, all elected members and officers of Salford City Council offer our sincere condolences at this sad time.”
Oldham Council leader Sean Fielding tweeted
“I join with the Royal Family and many others around the world in mourning the loss of the Duke of Edinburgh.Flags on Civic Buildings will be flown at half mast and I will be suspending my local election campaign until further notice as a mark of respect.”
Manchester Councillor Nigel Murphy tweeted:
“Sad to hear the sad news that HRH Prince Philip has died. His loyal support to HM The Queen for over seventy years and dedication to the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme is an example to us all.”
