Ruddington representatives and residents have been paying tribute to HRH Prince Philip, whose passing at the age of 99 was announced today by Buckingham Palace.
The husband of Queen Elizabeth II since 1947, the Duke of Edinburgh died at Windsor Castle this morning (9th April 2021) just two months before his 100th birthday. He was the longest-serving consort in British history and had only returned to Windsor on March 16th after a month in hospital. You can find further information about his long and eventful life >>HERE<<.
Although His Royal Highness came to Nottinghamshire on a number of occasions, the last time being in 2008 to Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – it’s not thought he ever visited Ruddington. However, his name has been well known and respected here by generations of villagers due to his Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme which he founded in 1956. These accolades, for young people aged 14 to 24, recognise the completion of a series of self-improvement exercises – and are especially popular among our village scouts and guides groups.
Chairman of Ruddington Parish Council, Allen Wood, said: “The Parish Council joins the nation mourning the death of His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh. As a mark of respect, during the period of Royal mourning, the Union Flag will fly at half mast outside St Peter’s Rooms. In line with current advice, we will not be encouraging the laying of flowers and will not have a physical Book of Condolence. We would like to encourage residents to send a message of Condolence online via www.royal.uk but residents without online access can leave messages of condolence by telephone to Nottinghamshire County Council’s Customer Services Centre where they can dictate a message for uploading. This can be completed by calling 0300 500 8080 Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm.”
Cllr Wood continued: “There will be a minute’s silence held prior to the Annual Parish meeting at 7.30pm and prior to the Parish Council Meeting which follows on Tuesday 13th April 2021.”
The Mayor of Rushcliffe, Cllr Sue Mallender said: “It is with great sadness to learn of the passing of HRH Prince Philip who has been a figure in all our lives for as long as many of us can remember. We share the Royal Family’s mourning for his loss and will be informing residents in due course how they can pay their respects to acknowledge his life and passing.”
Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council Cllr Simon Robinson added: “Our thoughts are with Her Majesty The Queen, the Royal Family and everyone who knew His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, at this incredibly sad time.”
Their online book of condolence is also now available for all Ruddington residents who may wish to sign it >>HERE<<. An in-person book of condolence will be available at Rushcliffe Arena, Rugby Road, NG2 7YG from Monday April 12th between 10am and 4pm each day, until further notice.
Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Sir John Peace, has also paid tribute: “I am very saddened to hear of the passing of HRH Prince Philip and my thoughts and prayers are with HM the Queen and the rest of the Royal Family at this difficult time” he said. “His Royal Highness has been an active supporter of Nottinghamshire during his many years of dedicated service and his presence within the county will be greatly missed. I remember the man – the sense of humour, the sharp insights and more importantly, the work he has done for young people through the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. His contribution has been immense, and it needs to be recognised by everyone”
Revd Andrew Buchanan, of St Peter’s Church in Ruddington, has posted this prayer following the death of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh :
“God of our lives,
We give thanks for the life of Prince Philip,
For his love of our country,
and for his devotion to duty.
We entrust him now to your love and mercy,
Through our Redeemer Jesus Christ.
Amen.”
He adds: “We’ll be remembering the Duke and praying for the Queen in our services this weekend”.
It’s expected the services at Ruddington’s Methodist and Baptist churches this Sunday will also include reflections on Prince Philip’s long and distinguished service to his Queen and Country.
If you’re a Ruddington resident who personally met the Duke of Edinburgh, we would love to share your memories of him. Please contact us >>HERE<< or via our Facebook Page.
{Main image courtesy of www.royal.uk}
