Thame Town Council – Statement

HRH, Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh

It is with deep sadness that Thame Town Council heard the announcement today, 9 April 2021, from Buckingham Palace that HRH, Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh has passed away.

The Council wishes to express its sincere condolences to H M The Queen and the members of the Royal family at this very difficult time.  The Duke of Edinburgh was a very well respected, loved and thought after member of the Royal family and will be greatly missed.

Due to Covid-19, a Book of Condolence is not available at the Town Hall. An online Book of Condolence is available at www.royal.uk.

In accordance with protocol and as a mark of respect the Union Flag, at the Town Hall and Memorial Gardens, will fly at half mast.

As a mark of respect, civic engagements, committee meetings and events will begin with a period of silence.

Due to Covid-19, people will be discouraged to lay flowers during this time. People should make donations if they so wish, nobody should feel obliged to donate during this emergency. The Duke of Cambridge has recently launched an urgent appeal asking those who are able to to donate money to the National Emergencies Trust so that the Trust can help local charities, distribute money and support victims in combatting the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

To mark the death of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh there will be a national one minute silence at 3.00pm on Saturday 17 April. Please continue to observe social distancing in line with government guidelines.