'Inspirational' HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh is mourned in Ross and Cromarty – with throwback pictures to Royal visits
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The Lord-Lieutenant of Ross and Cromarty Joanie Whiteford has led a tribute to HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.
Mrs Whitford said tributes from across the world paid to Prince Philip showed his place in history as a truly inspirational person.
Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh passed away last Friday, April 9, aged 99 years.
Mrs Whiteford praised the Prince's visits to Ross and Cromarty and shared throwback pictures of Prince Philip and HRH Queen Elizabeth when they visited the area.
She said: "The people of the Lieutenancy of Ross and Cromarty join with the whole country in being deeply saddened by the death of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.
"Whilst there is an immediate feeling of sadness, there is a profound sense of gratitude for his contribution to the life of the nation and the Commonwealth.
"After a distinguished career in the Royal Navy, where he was mentioned in dispatches for his heroic acts during the Battle of Cape Matapan, which played a major role in the destruction of the Italian fleet during World War Two, he gave a long lifetime of service to The Queen and country.
"He made his own contributions from his wide range of interests including science and technology, nature and environment, sport and industry. He helped save engineering in Britain in the 1970’s and was a key mover in the creation of a national engineering academy, and he took an early interest in conservation and remained passionate about animals and the environment. He earned long-lasting respect and admiration from those he met during his visits to the Commonwealth countries.
"He supported more than 700 charities, but one of the most widely known and respected is the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which has enriched the lives of generations of young people, and will never be forgotten by those who have taken part in it."
Mrs Whiteford continued: "We are honoured to have enjoyed many visits by The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh to the Lieutenancy of Ross and Cromarty, including a tour of Dingwall and Cromarty in 1964, Highlands Fabricators’ yard at Nigg in August 1974, Invergordon in 1987 and in 2002 they toured Skye, Stornoway and Wick as part of The Queen’s Golden Jubilee celebrations.
"The tributes to The Duke of Edinburgh have been truly inspirational, I always think it such a shame that a person is not fully appreciated until they have passed away.
She added: "What higher accolade can anyone be given than to have been “the strength and stay” of our Queen, Queen Elizabeth II.
"On behalf of everyone in the Lieutenancy of Ross and Cromarty, I send our sincere condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and to The Royal Family."
READ: HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh dies aged 99
READ: Book of condolence opened by Highland Council following death of HRH Prince Philip
