READERS, public bodies and organisations across Wyre Forest have been paying their respects following the news of Prince Philip's death, aged 99.

Wyre Forest District Council has confirmed that the union flag at its headquarters at Wyre Forest House and other council buildings will be flying at half-mast until the morning after the Duke Of Edinburgh's funeral.

Chairman of Wyre Forest District Council, Councillor Shazu Miah, said: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the Duke of Edinburgh and I know that my sadness will be shared across Wyre Forest.

"Prince Philip was our longest-serving consort and gave a lifetime of service to the people of the country.

"Flags will be flown at half-mast and a national online book of condolence opened for the community to share their feelings at this sad time.

"My thoughts are with all those who are deeply affected."

The chairman of Worcestershire County Council, Councillor Bob Brookes, said: “It is with great sadness that I offer my condolences, on behalf of Worcestershire County Council, to Her Majesty the Queen and the rest of the Royal Family.

"As a mark of respect at this very sad time, flags are being flown at half mast at County Hall and other public buildings across the county."

The Lord-Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Holcroft, said: "On behalf of the County and people of Worcestershire, I offer our heartfelt condolences to Your Majesty and to the wider Royal Family at this time of profound national grief.

"We share a deep sense of loss with all in the United Kingdom and abroad as we remember with great pride and affection HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.

"The Duke had been Your Majesty’s steadfast consort and a dedicated public servant for more than 70 years.

"In war and in peace, he set an unparalleled example of service not self, making an extraordinary contribution to the nation and inspiring so many of us in so many different fields.

"We are all diminished by his loss and we shall not see his like again; but his remarkable legacy has imbued the national consciousness."

A spokesman for West Mercia Police said: "All officers, staff and volunteers at West Mercia Police join the nation in mourning the sad passing of HRH Duke of Edinburgh.

"We offer our deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this very difficult time and pay tribute to the life of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh."

Jon Pryce, chief fire officer of Hereford and Worcestershire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Our thoughts are with the Queen and the rest of the Royal Family at this difficult time.

"As a mark of our respect, union flags at headquarters and other service locations, where they are available, will be lowered to half-mast until further notice."

Messages have also been left by readers in our book of condolence.

Kay Davies said: "Our prayers and thoughts are with the queen and her family at this sad time! May the memories of your life together be a blessing to you in your time of grief, God bless you all love from Kay and family."

Anne Montgomery wrote: "My thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty the Queen and her family at this sad time. Prince Philip will be remembered by the whole nation."

To leave a message in our book of condolence, click here.