"Tireless" charity work of HRH Duke of Edinburgh applauded

Prince Philip has been praised for his “unstinting" support for charities across the UK following his retirement from public duties.

The Duke of Edinburgh, who turns 96 next month, will attend previously scheduled engagements between now and August but will not accept new invitations, he announced today.

His Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme has inspired young people for more than 60 years in over 140 nations and is one of the country’s best known charities.

The Dean of the Chapel Royal in Scotland thanked the Prince Philip for his “unstinting” promotion of organisations across the country.

The Very Rev Professor Iain Torrance, Dean of the Chapel Royal in Scotland and Dean of the Order of the Thistle, said: “In Scotland we are so used to public events with our witty and eagle-eyed Duke of Edinburgh, wearing his kilt in Deeside, unmatched in his unstinting promotion elsewhere of the many organisations for which he is Patron, and always in steadfast support of The Queen.

“We salute him with great affection as he retires from these public roles and thank him with all our hearts.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon paid tribute to the Prince's charity work, which she said "benefited millions of young people", while also acknowledging his time as chancellor of Edinburgh University.

“He has always served with enthusiasm and a healthy sense of humour. I have always thoroughly enjoyed any time that I have spent in his company," she said.

“I know that even as he steps back from public life, the Duke will continue to be a huge support to the Queen. I wish him all the very best for a happy and peaceful retirement.”

Last year Prince Philip had to pull out of attending a memorial service for the Battle of Jutland centenary at St Magnus Cathedral in Orkney due to ill health.

The Duke’s daughter Anne, HRH the Princess Royal, will be the Lord High Commissioner at this year’s General Assembly of the Church of Scotland which opens on 20 May in Edinburgh.