SCOTTISH Borders Council has arranged for flags to fly at half-mast on all its buildings following the death of Prince Philip.

The Duke of Edinburgh died “peacefully this morning” at Windsor Castle at the age of 99, the Royal Family announced.

In the Borders, the local authority's convener, David Parker, said: "Prince Philip enjoyed many public and private engagements in the Scottish Borders during his time as the Duke of Edinburgh.

"He was particularly fond of Lauderdale, where he enjoyed the hospitality of the local community.

"The council is very sad to hear this news today, and offers Her Majesty the Queen and all her family our deepest sympathies and condolences at this time.”

Words of tribute have also been penned by Sir Hew Strachan, the Lord-Lieutenant of Tweeddale, who says a special service is being planned for Peebles Old Parish Church when coronavirus restrictions allow.

Sir Hew said: “I shall be writing to Her Majesty on behalf of Tweeddale to offer our deepest sympathy.”

Sir Hew Strachan’s full tribute

“The news of the death of HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, will create a sense of loss in all of us.

“His was a full life, well lived, for which we should give thanks – and we plan to do so with a service in Peebles Old Parish Church when that becomes possible.

“It is hard to imagine him not at the side of Her Majesty The Queen, to whom he gave constant and indefatigable support.

“His contribution to her reign leaves us all in his debt. However, his service to the nation, and to multiple communities across the Commonwealth, meant that he also touched the lives of many others – and did so in such diverse and different ways.

“He was rightly proud of his service in the Royal Navy in the Second World War, remaining close to the senior service and to the sea for the rest of his life.

“His sense of humour and his clear views translated into common sense and wise counsel.

“His support as patron or president of charities and organisations was never simply a formality. His interests were too diverse and too deep for that.

“Recognising early on the threats to nature created by humans, he was a passionate supporter of the World Wildlife Fund.

“It is hard to single out one contribution from among so many, but perhaps the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award can best exemplify the values for which he stood.

“That initiative has introduced countless young people to activities which have broadened their horizons, stretched their capabilities and enabled them to find themselves.

“It will continue to do so, shaping future generations, and so will bear lasting testimony to his legacy.

“I shall be writing to Her Majesty on behalf of Tweeddale to offer our deepest sympathy.”