WINDSOR'S mayor has said he is 'honoured' for the town to host the Duke of Edinburgh’s final farewell.

Details have, this afternoon, been released on how Prince Philip's send off will be a royal funeral like no other, with the Queen and her family following social distancing guidelines.

Buckingham Palace announced that Philip’s ceremonial royal funeral will take place on April 17 in St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, and a national minute’s silence will be observed as it begins at 3pm.

CLICK HERE for more details: Final farewell to Duke of Edinburgh set for April 17

Following the details being announced councillor John Story, the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, said it was an honour.

He said: "We are honoured that the funeral of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh will be taking place at Windsor Castle on Saturday April 17.

“Although this will happen in private at St George’s Chapel, it will be televised meaning that those both locally and around the world will be able to be part of this historic event.

“We are reminding everyone to remember the current public health guidance around Covid-19 and request that people do not gather outside Windsor Castle, on the Long Walk or in Windsor town centre.

“We recommend that you pay your respects from the safety of your own home and avoid making non-essential journeys to Windsor.”

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The public has been told not to attempt to attend any events in connection to the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral on April 17 in newly issued Government guidance.

The Cabinet Office reiterated a plea for flowers not to be left at royal residences and advised businesses they may wish to make arrangements to observe the national minute’s silence at 3pm that day.

Firms were not expected to close, and organisers of sporting events were told it is their decision whether fixtures should continue as planned.

Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Ben Snuggs, strategic commander for the funeral, said: “We understand that people will want to pay their respects to HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and to the Royal Family during this time of national mourning.

“However, we would ask that the public respect the Royal Household’s wishes and the Government advice by minimising travel and not gathering in groups. Instead, we would ask people to use the online book of condolence which has been set up by the Royal Household.

“There will continue to be a police presence in Windsor in the lead up to and on the day of the funeral as part of our measures to ensure public health and safety and protective security.

“Our thoughts remain with the Royal Family and all those affected at this very difficult time.”