BRACKNELL Forest Council leader Paul Bettison has written in his tribute to the late Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Phillip.

He said: "Last week saw the sad passing of His Royal Highness, The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Our thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty the Queen and all members of the Royal Family, at this difficult time.

"The Duke of Edinburgh was not only a neighbour of Bracknell Forest, but also accompanied Her Majesty the Queen to the opening of our very own Heritage Centre, The Look Out, on 10 April 1991.

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"The Queen and Prince Philip were welcomed by Cllr Edwin Thompson, the Borough Mayor of the time, the Mayoress and local children. They spent almost two hours visiting the centre and touring Bracknell Forest’s woodland areas.

"Before focussing on his work in supporting The Queen following her Accession in 1952, His Royal Highness had a successful naval career where he served in the Second World War. He was an example to us all of someone who placed loyalty and service to others before self.

"Prince Philip also had many interests which he pursued separately to his work with The Queen, including conservation, engineering, and The Duke of Edinburgh Awards which he founded in 1956.

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"The Duke of Edinburgh was Patron, President, or a member of 992 organisations, with special interests in scientific and technological research and development, industry, the welfare of young people, conservation and the environment and the encouragement of sport.

"In 2009 His Royal Highness became the longest serving British consort in history.

"The funeral arrangements for His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh have now been confirmed.

"For more information visit The Royal Household website.

"You can read more, and sign the online condolence book, on our royal tribute page.

"Stay safe and have a good week."