'Thank you for your service to our country' - North East pays tribute to Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

Prince Philip was the longest-serving consort in British history. He and the Queen were married for more than 70 years.

As news of his passing broke, dozens of you got in touch to share your own tributes.

Here is the Buckingham Palace statement, released at midday on Friday, April 9, in full.

“It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,” it said.

“His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.

“Further announcements will made in due course.

“The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer were among those sharing tributes on social media as the Palace statement was made.

Mr Johnson said: “We are a kingdom both united in grief and gratitude; grief at Prince Philip’s passing, and gratitude for his decades of selfless service to the country.”

Here are some of your messages from our social media pages:

Claire Spencer: “So sad. Sending condolences to the Royal Family. Glad he was at home not in hospital.”

Debbie Boulton: “RIP sir, such sad news my heart goes out to the Royal Family.”

Elaine Bell: “So very sad, he served the Queen and our county absolutely amazingly. RIP Prince Philip. Sending deepest condolences to our Queen and family.”

Tom Robson: “A very loyal servant to this country and far beyond, RIP.”

Lynne Isaac: “Such very sad news, RIP Prince Philip, glad he was at home with the Queen beside him. He will be sadly missed.”

Wyn Scott: “To a wonderful man and thank you for the service you gave to the Queen and to our country.”

Joan Redford: “RIP Prince Philip thank you for your service to our country, God bless our Queen.”

Robertwhb Shields: “God bless you sir, God save the Queen.”

Stuart Morgan: “Great service to our country, helped many young people through his Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. RIP sir.”

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