Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth IIs husband, has died aged 99, Buckingham Palace has announced. In a statement shortly after midday, the palace said: His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle. The Duke of Edinburgh, who was the longest-serving consort in British history, had returned to Windsor Castle on 16 March after a month in hospital. Boris Johnson said he inspired the lives of countless young people. Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, said the duke consistently put the interests of others ahead of his own and, in so doing, provided an outstanding example of Christian service. The palace added: The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss. Speaking at Downing Street, the prime minister said he received the news of the dukes death with great sadness. Prince Philip earned the affection of generations here in the United Kingdom, across the Commonwealth, and around the world, he said. The flag at Buckingham Palace was lowered to half-mast and a notice was posted on the gates following the announcement of the dukes death. People also placed flowers outside the palace, while crowds began to gather at Windsor Castle. The BBCs royal correspondent Nicholas Witchell said it was a moment of real national sadness and a moment of sadness, most particularly of course, for the Queen losing her husband of 73 years - a bigger span of years than most of us can imagine. He said Prince Philip had made a huge contribution to the success of the Queens reign, describing the duke as utterly loyal in his belief in the importance of the role that the Queen was fulfilling - and in his duty to support her. It was the importance of the solidity of that relationship, of their marriage, that was so crucial to the success of her reign, he added. As news of the dukes death rippled through this royal borough, people started to gather outside the gates of Windsor castle. Locals, including a young girl, have left flower bouquets at the castle entrance. More are being brought. One of the cards attached to the flowers simply reads RIP Prince Philip. Another is addressed to Her Majesty The Queen sending their deep condolences. There is a sombre mood here in Windsor as people quietly reflect on the news of the dukes death. It was here where he spent his last weeks after being discharged from hospital. His last days spent with his wife, the Queen.
