Prince Philip: Scotland pays tribute to 'a remarkable man'
- Published
The Duke of Edinburgh’s enduring connection with Scotland
Tributes have been paid in Scotland to the Duke of Edinburgh following his death at the age of 99.
Political leaders have expressed their condolences and parties have suspended their Holyrood election campaigns.
Flags have been lowered at the Scottish Parliament, which will be recalled on Monday so MSPs can pay tribute to Prince Philip.
The organisers of the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme described him as "a remarkable man".
Prince Philip had a long and close association with Scotland which dates back to his school days in the 1930s.
He attended Gordonstoun in Moray, and he and the Queen were regular visitors to the Balmoral estate in Royal Deeside for many decades.
Prince Philip maintaining boats at Hopeman Harbour while attending Gordonstoun school
He was chancellor of Edinburgh University for more than 50 years, and also founded the Duke of Edinburgh Award to celebrate the achievements of young people.
The organisers of the award, which was launched 65 years ago, described him as an "inspirational champion of young people".
Director Helen Anderson said: "The duke was a remarkable man who achieved so much in his life. It was through his sheer determination, drive and vision that the Duke of Edinburgh's Award became the success it is today.
"The DofE started in Scotland which is a heritage we are incredibly proud of. This legacy has helped transform the lives of thousands of young people in Scotland, and millions more around the world."
The Duke of Edinburgh Award celebrates the achievements of young people
Edinburgh University said it was "very proud" that the prince had served as its chancellor from 1953 to 2010.
"His passionate belief in the positive benefits of education, as well as an innate inquisitiveness in scientific development was evident during his time as chancellor," it said in a statement.
"His regular visits and tireless service were greatly appreciated by students, staff and visitors."
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said Prince Philip, who became the Duke of Edinburgh in 1947, had "deep and longstanding" ties to Scotland.
She said: "From his patronage of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme, to his close association with the University of Edinburgh as chancellor for over 50 years and his commitments to countless charities and organisations, Prince Philip's long contribution to public life in Scotland will leave a profound mark on its people."
Flowers were left at the gates of Balmoral on Friday ahead of the first minister's plea
Ms Sturgeon said a book of condolences would be opened in the coming days.
Flowers were left at the gates of Balmoral Castle in Ballater shortly after news of Prince Philip's death emerged. However, the Royal household has asked the public not to leave floral tributes or gather at the Palace of Holyroodhouse or Balmoral.
"The palace has suggested that people could donate to charity instead, if they wish to do so," added Ms Sturgeon.
The Scottish Parliament will be recalled at 11:00 on Monday to allow MSPs to pay tribute.
Presiding Officer Ken McIntosh expressed his sympathy on behalf of the parliament to the Queen and the royal family.
He said Prince Philip had "extended his friendship and support to the parliament from the outset".
'A very active guy'
Prince Philip: Ballater locals remember the Duke of Edinburgh
In Ballater, local people spoke of their affection for the duke and his family, who spent summers at nearby Balmoral.
One man told how he and his wife were "fortunate" to meet Prince Philip and the Duchess of Cambridge several years ago while walking in a local forest.
He said: "This black Range Rover came up and the duke got out and was fixing something at the side of the road - he must have been 94.
"Kate got out and they spoke to us. He was just a very active guy. He asked where we were parked, he was very on the ball, it was incredible.
"He's also done a lot for young people - I've done a lot of walking in my time and come across a lot of youngsters out in the hills doing the Duke of Edinburgh scheme. It's very sad."
Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross said the prince's death was "a reminder of what's most important in life".
He said: "We have lost a tremendous public servant who for decades served his Queen and country. My heartfelt condolences are with Her Majesty and all of the Royal Family."
Anas Sarwar, Scottish Labour leader, said the country was mourning the loss of "a dedicated public servant" who contributed "so much to our country".
He said: "Prince Philip had a deep love for Scotland and we will now come together as a country to remember his life and mark his distinguished career."
Flags are flying at half mast outside the Scottish Parliament
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said the prince was "often colourful, sometimes controversial, but always dedicated to his wife, the Queen, and to his country.
"Prince Philip's passing marks the end of a great life, well lived."
Alba Party leader Alex Salmond said no one could question Prince Philip's record of public service as the longest serving consort in history.
He added: "On a personal level I found Prince Philip direct and forthright but always welcoming and with a fine, inquiring mind."
The Scottish Greens also expressed their sympathies.
Gordonstoun school said it had learned of Prince Philip's death "with great sadness", and sent its condolences to the Queen and the Royal Family.
The school's principal, Lisa Kerr, said: "He had an immensely strong character, combined with a unique sense of fun, infectious optimism and strong sense of duty.
"We are immensely grateful for his support over the years and his presence and support in the school's life will be sorely missed."
Condolences were also expressed by a spokesperson for the Castle of Mey, which was purchased by the Queen Mother in 1952, while Balmoral Castle tweeted a black image as a mark of mourning.
David Geddes, president of the Braemar Royal Highland Society, which organises the Braemar Gathering, said: "It was an honour and a privilege to welcome HRH The Duke of Edinburgh to the Gathering each year up until his retirement from public duty."
Flags were also lowered at the Palace of Holyroodhouse
Tributes have also been paid by religious leaders.
The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, the Rt Rev Dr Martin Fair, said: "Prince Philip's naval service to our country in time of war, his enormous service to the nation afterwards, and his support of many organisations and charities in industry, education, conservation and sport have been an example to many."
The Catholic Church's Bishop of Aberdeen, Hugh Gilbert, said: "I will pray for the repose of his soul and that those closest to him may find comfort at this time of loss through the memories they shared of his long, full life dedicated to public service."
The Muslim Council of Scotland also expressed "deep condolences".
Meanwhile, Chief Constable Iain Livingstone said Police Scotland would take time to pay respects to Prince Philip in the coming days.
"Whether at the side of Her Majesty the Queen or making his own visits to organisations, his interest in and support of those who serve Scotland and our communities was clear to everyone," he said.
A minute's silence will be held before football matches in Scotland over the weekend.
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- Published9 April 2021
- Published9 April 2021
