Local tributes paid to Duke of Edinburgh

WESTBURY Town Council is leading the local tributes following the death the Duke of Edinburgh.

The town council said, “Westbury Town Council expresses its sadness at the death of His Royal Highness, The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh and joins the royal family and the world in its mourning.

“Since receiving the formal announcement, the town council has lowered its union flags to half-mast at the Laverton and the War Memorial on Edward Street. The flags will fly at half-mast throughout the period of mourning until 8am on the 18th April following the funeral. A national one minute silence will take place at 3pm on the day of the funeral.

 Book of Condolence

“There will be an online book of condolence on the Westbury Town Council website: www.westburytowncouncil.gov.uk 

“This will remain available until the day after the funeral. People can also leave a message of condolence at: www.royal.uk/ 

“To comply with Covid-19 restrictions, a book of condolence will not be available at the Laverton. We are offering to help residents without access to a computer who wish to sign an online book of condolence. They will be required to call 01373 822232 to speak to a member of staff.

Tributes

“We understand people will want to pay their respects but public health guidance is that the laying of floral tributes should be discouraged and residents should be asked to avoid gathering at landmarks at this time due to the ongoing risk of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Royal household themselves have asked that floral tributes are not laid at Royal Residences. We are being asked to support this message across Westbury and Wiltshire.

“There is no official arrangement for giving donations in memory of The Duke of Edinburgh. However members of the public who wish to make a donation as a tribute to His Royal Highness are encouraged to give to a charity of their choosing or one of the charities or organisations which The Duke of Edinburgh supported in his public duties. 

“A list of His Royal Highness’ patronages and how to donate can be found on the website: www.royal.uk/ 

“Over the course of his life, The Duke of Edinburgh was patron or president of some 992 organisations, with special interests in scientific and technological research and development, industry, the welfare of young people, conservation and the environment and the encouragement of sport.

Town Council Events and Meetings

“All public services will continue as usual through the mourning process, this will include all meetings.”

Wiltshire Council also has an online book of condolence which will remain open until the day after the funeral; you can sign it by visiting www. wiltshire.gov.uk/registration-service/royal-memorial-events/hrh-prince-philip/book-of-condolence-for-hrh-prince-philip