The Duke of Edinburgh was involved with over 700 organisations throughout his royal life. We’ve searched through the list of patronages and presidencies for reactions to Prince Philip’s passing. Here we present a selection of reactions from all over the world.
Action Medical Research – Patron since 1955
“For over six decades the Duke of Edinburgh was able to observe with interest the many medical research successes made possible with the support of the charity. The Duke of Edinburgh generously hosted a series of receptions in recent years when supporters were delighted to experience his commitment and enthusiasm for the charity.”
The Chair of Action Medical Research, Luke Bordewich, said: “We are immensely sad at the news of the death of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh whose support for Action Medical Research has been so important to the charity throughout our history. There is no doubt that he will be greatly missed.”
Anglo-Swedish Society – Patron since 1954
“[The Duke of Edinburgh] will be missed for his energy, warmth and wry sense of humour.”
The Association for Science Education
“It is with great sadness that we at the ASE today mark the passing of our patron, HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. A lifelong believer in the importance of science and technology to the nation, Prince Philip had supported the association for more than 20 years – including officiating at the opening of our headquarters. We extend our deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this time.”
Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland
“We are saddened by the news of HRH, The Duke of Edinburgh, Patron of the ASGBI, passing. We offer our condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and members of the Royal Family at this difficult time.”
Auto Cycle Union
“The Auto-Cycle Union is deeply saddened to learn that His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh KG KT OM GBE AC QSO has sadly passed away earlier today. The ACU was honoured to have Prince Philip as our Patron. He attended the Gold Cup event at Scarborough’s Olivers Mount in 2003 to mark the ACU’s centenary year. Our thoughts are with Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family during this very sad time.”
Book Aid International – patron since 1966
“His Royal Highness has been Book Aid International’s Patron for over 50 years. He was a great reader who believed in the power of books and was always willing to help us thank our supporters and drive home the importance of books around the world,” said Alison Tweed, Chief Executive of Book Aid International.
“We feel incredibly lucky to have had His patronage for so long, and were honoured that His Royal Highness chose to remain our patron even after his retirement. I know that I am joined by our partners and readers around the world in thanking His Royal Highness for his patronage and expressing our profound sorrow at his passing.”
Bowles Rock Trust – Patron since 1964
“We’re deeply saddened to learn today of the death of our Patron, His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh. Our Patron for 56 years, The Duke was a huge champion for young people and the role that outdoor education plays in giving children and young people life changing experiences. The thoughts of all at Bowles are with Her Majesty The Queen at this sad time.”
Braemar Mountain Rescue Association – Patron since 1966
“It is with sadness that Braemar Mountain Rescue Association has learned of the death of HRH Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh who has been our long standing Patron since 1966.
“He always took a keen interest in the work of the Braemar Mountain Rescue Association and was generous with his time and support for the activities of his local mountain rescue team.
“We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Her Majesty The Queen and the rest of the Royal Family.”
British Heart Foundation
“Prince Philip offered steadfast support to the BHF for nearly 60 years and was a remarkable advocate for the power of research to save and improve lives from heart and circulatory diseases,” said Dr Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of the Foundation.
“Prince Philip’s role as our patron was one aspect of a life characterised by support for good causes and devotion to public service. His contribution will forever be remembered.”
British Model Flying Association – patron since 1957
“Prince Philip became Patron of the Society of Model Aeronautical Engineers (now trading as BMFA) in 1957 and, despite relinquishing many of his patronages when he stepped back from public duties over recent years, he remained in place as our patron for a remarkable 64 years. Prince Philip also served two terms as Chairman of the Royal Aero Club and had also served as its President.
“Prince Philip was a long-term aviation enthusiast, gaining his RAF wings in 1953 having been taught by Group Captain Caryl Gordon who had led the CFS Meteor Aerobatic Team in the 1950’s. He also qualified as a helicopter pilot with the Royal Navy in 1956 and was awarded his private pilot’s licence in 1959.
“Many members of the Royal Family have flown solo during their training with the RAF or Royal Navy, but Prince Philip is the only one to have flown a civil aircraft solo. This he did in October 1959 when he flew a Turbulent from White Waltham. This was a significant occasion because it is the only time a member of the Royal Family has flown a single seat aircraft.
“He flew 5,986 hours in 59 types of aircraft, his final flight at the age of 76 was on 11th August 1997 from Carlisle to Islay.
“We are certain that members will join us in offering our sincere condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family at this sad time.”
Capability Scotland
In a statement released by Chair of the Board of Trustees of Capability Scotland, Professor Sandy Cameron, and Chief Executive Brian Logan, the organisation wrote: “We were all deeply saddened to learn of the death of our patron, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. He has been our patron for many years and we were always grateful for his support and visits to our services in the past.
“On behalf of our trustees, staff, customers and their families, our sincere condolences go to Her Majesty The Queen and the whole Royal Family.”
Central Readers’ Council
“May he rest in peace and rise in glory.”
Charities Aid Foundation – patron since 1974
“The Duke of Edinburgh has been our Patron since 1974. He was a respected and much loved supporter of the Charities Aid Foundation as well as hundreds of other charities and organisations. His irreplaceable and invaluable contribution to CAF and our nation will be sorely missed.”
Cheam School Association
“The Cheam community wish to express our great sadness at the news of the passing of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. We are very proud to have him as an old boy of the school and as patron of the CSA, the society for old boys and girls of the school, which he supported so fondly. He demonstrated many values cherished by the school, embodied in his lifelong dedication and energy given to public service. Our thoughts and prayers are now with the Royal Family, especially Her Majesty The Queen, whom the Prince supported for over seven decades.”
Egham and Thorpe Royal Agricultural and Horticultural Association
“It is with great sadness we offer our deepest condolences to Her Majesty The Queen on the loss of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh – Prince Philip her beloved husband who we are extremely honoured to have as Patron of the Egham & Thorpe Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Association who stage the Egham Royal Show. A true life long servant to Queen & country. RIP.”
English Schools’ Football Association
“The ESFA is saddened to learn of the passing of English Schools’ FA patron, HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh today.
“Our thoughts are with The Queen at this sad time.”
The English Twenty Club – patron since 1954
“It is with great sadness that we note the passing of our Patron, H.R.H. The Duke of Edinburgh who had been our Patron for 68 years. Our condolences go out to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and all the Royal Family.”
Royal Scottish Academy
“It is with greatest sorrow that the Royal Scottish Academy note of the death of His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh today. HRH Prince Philip was elected an Honorary Member of the Academy in 1963 and was our longest serving Honorary Member in the 195th year history of the RSA. He was also Patron of the Friends of the RSA (now amalgamated under the RSA banner).
“He visited the RSA on several of occasions and was an enthusiastic purchaser of work from the Annual Exhibition. His last visit was in 2011 for the 25th Anniversary of the Friends of the RSA.
“He will be sorely missed by us all, for his patronage of the contemporary arts in Scotland through his tremendous support of the Royal Scottish Academy over the past 58 years.
“We send our deepest condolences to her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second and the Royal Family at this time.”
The Gallipoli Association
“The Gallipoli Association is greatly saddened to hear of the death of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, our Patron of many years.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with the Royal Family, and especially Her Majesty, at this time.
“He will be greatly missed.”
Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust
“[The Duke of Edinburgh] was our Patron since 1973, having previously been President for eight years, so his involvement spanned 57 years. His wildlife conservation credentials have rightly been lauded at a global scale. At home, the Sandringham Estate, he masterminded a now classic, and impressive, combination of wildlife conservation and wild game management alongside commercial farming. He made extensive use of the GWCT’s research and advice in doing that, and many years ago initiated a broad annual ecological monitoring programme to understand thoroughly the benefits of that management. He was a very knowledgeable naturalist with a deep love of the wider countryside and all country sports – regularly making contact with our upland researchers when at Balmoral.
“HRH visiting Auchnerran in 2016He visited our research and demonstration farm, the Allerton Project in Leicestershire, twice; and our Scottish research and demonstration farm, Auchnerran on Deeside, only four and a half years ago. On all those occasions he seemed entirely happy to keep asking knowledgeable and probing questions considerably beyond the time allotted on his schedule.”
George Cross Island Association
“It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of our Patron, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. The Chairman and members of the George Cross Island Association send condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family.
“We say a sad farewell to a dedicated Patron who has always supported our Association and our Veterans. You will be greatly missed, Sir. May you rest in peace.”
Licensed Trade Charity
“We are saddened by news today, of the death of the Charity’s patron, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. It has been a privilege to enjoy his patronage for so many years and our thoughts are with Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family.”
London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine – patron since 1952
“The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine is deeply saddened to learn of the death of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
“Prince Philip became LSHTM’s patron in 1952 and made numerous visits to LSHTM, including during its centenary celebration in 1999. In more recent years, HRH hosted our closest supporters at Buckingham Palace.
“HRH remained patron of our School after he stepped down from public duties. In 2020, in his first public statement since retirement, HRH thanked those helping to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, including LSHTM.”
Marine Biological Association – patron since 1953
“The Marine Biological Association (MBA) is sad to hear of the death of our Patron, His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh. Prince Philip has been the Patron of the MBA since 1953. He has shown a keen interest in raising public awareness of the relationship of humanity with the environment and was awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the Association in 2014.
“A number of MBA staff had the privilege of meeting His Royal Highness over the years and he showed himself both interested and passionate when it came to discussing marine environmental issues. In 2014, for example, he attended an event celebrating the granting of a Royal Charter to the MBA and spent a great deal of time speaking to those present including a lively discussion with a number of marine biology students.”
Model Yachting Association – patron since 1956
“In the 65 years that we have enjoyed his Patronage he has taken a keen interest in our Association and sport, helping us to celebrate our Centenary in 2011, by attending our IOM World Championship at West Kirby Sailing Club,” wrote the Association’s President, Derek Priestley, in a blog post on their official website.
“Over many years officers of our Association have been invited to attend garden parties at Buckingham Palace through the Duke’s involvement with us and it was back in 1995 that David Rose our Treasurer and myself as Vice Chairman were selected to represent the MYA with our wives. On a boiling hot July afternoon, we stood in line as we had been selected to meet HRH, and answer his questions about our sport. We were the end of the line and after he finally got to us and we had our chat we were then able to go to the refreshment tents for a very welcome cold lemonade!
“Although we are a small Association, I feel that we have been fortunate to be able to list his name as Patron on our stationery.”
Modern Pentathlon Association of Great Britain – patron since 1958
“The chairman, board and members of Pentathlon GB are greatly saddened by the passing of our royal patron Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, which was announced by Buckingham Palace today. The Duke was an active supporter of sport and recreation in the UK and internationally, and all at Pentathlon GB felt most fortunate to have had him as patron since 1958.
“Whilst being one of some 780 or so organisations benefitting from the Duke’s patronage, his involvement in modern pentathlon was notable on a number of occasions. In the aftermath of a riding scandal at the 1982 World Championships, concerning the suitability of horses provided by the Italian organisers, the Duke, as president of the international equestrian federation (FEI), conducted a review. Whilst questioning the suitability of thoroughbred horses for the use within Modern Pentathlon, with typical candour the Duke did not spare pentathletes themselves from criticism, concluding; ‘…there was little wrong with the horses but quite a lot to be desired in the riding ability of many of the competitors.’
“Following the success of Great Britain’s women at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, the Duke graced the sport of Pentathlon by opening the 2001 World Championships which were held on home soil at Millfield school in Somerset. In front of three thousand spectators and athletes from forty-four competing nations, the royal visit provided a special start to what was to become Great Britain’s most successful championships. Olympic champion, Stephanie Cook, added world gold to her tally that year and the British women’s team won both the traditional and relay team titles too. This proved to be the start of a remarkable run of medals at successive World, European and Olympic Games which were acknowledged by the Duke on a regular basis.
“When Prince Philip stepped down from Royal duties in 2017, Pentathlon GB were honoured that Pentathlon GB was included in the small number of patronages he chose to keep.
“Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this sad time.”
The Mount Everest Foundation
“The Mount Everest Foundation is saddened to hear of the death of our Patron, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, this morning. The Trustees and Members wish to convey their humble gratitude for his patronage of the MEF and to express our deep condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and the entire Royal Family.”
Muscular Dystrophy UK – patron since 1966
Statement by Catherine Woodhead, Chief Executive of Muscular Dystrophy UK:
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of His Royal Highness, Prince Philip. His dedicated patronage for so many years has been a precious asset in the fight against muscle-wasting conditions. Prince Philip had the kindness and foresight to lend his backing to a charity focused on what were then little known, poorly understood conditions. The Duke’s backing remained an immense encouragement throughout his patronage, most recently hosting an event in 2016 at St James’s Palace.
“Through the decades, Prince Philip has helped to raise awareness and promote understanding of this vitally important cause. He met with a great many people and families who were encouraged by his understanding of their condition – not only the physical challenges they faced, but the emotional challenges for them and their families too. He was also aware of the barriers that needed to be overcome to enable them to live well with muscular dystrophy. These moments and memories of his wholehearted support will be cherished for many years to come.
“Muscular Dystrophy UK will remain forever grateful to our Patron, HRH the Duke of Edinburgh.”
Round Table Great Britain and Ireland – patron since 1952
“It’s with great sadness that we found out today that our former patron, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, has passed away aged 99. Acting as the patron of Round Table since 1952, Prince Philip wrote that ‘The motto ‘Adopt, Adapt, Improve,’ is as valid today as it was when Round Table was founded, and it is very encouraging to know that it continues to attract enthusiastic and dedicated members.’
We remember fondly his long association with our organisation, and thank him for his assistance and support along the way. Rest in Peace.”
Royal Air Force Museum
“His Royal Highness has been a passionate supporter of the Royal Air Force Museum since its inception in the late 1960s, assisting with our development and visiting us a number of times over the years in both an official and unofficial capacity. Privately HRH was always interested the Museum’s progress and he was a staunch advocate for the Museum publicly, particularly when we needed support for our major projects.
“As a Marshal of the Royal Air Force, His Royal Highness guided us with his knowledge, experience and expertise.
“Our sadness at this time is shared by people across the globe, as we remember with affection and gratitude the service given by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.”
Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
“HRH Prince Philip played a very significant part in the College’s history during his 66 years as patron, which we recognised in 2015 by constructing the Prince Philip Building,” said Professor Michael Griffin, President of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
“His engagement with Fellows and officers of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh at the opening of the building was quite extraordinary. His portrait has hung alongside past College Presidents with respect to his status as patron and Honorary Fellow of the College.”
Royal Windsor Horse Show
Statement from Show Director Simon Brooks-Ward:
“HRH The Duke of Edinburgh’s contribution to the equestrian community cannot be underestimated. He was President of the FEI, wrote the International Carriage Driving rules, was a brilliant polo player and was a force for good at Royal Windsor.
“He was a huge support to the show and encouraged initiative and creativity at every juncture. We will miss His Royal Highness’s visits to the office, watching him driving his fell ponies on a regular basis and for his down-to-earth, practical advice in the management of the show.
“Many will not realise that also he wrote and typed up the forward himself for every souvenir programme while he was President. They are his words and demonstrate that His Royal Highness knew and took a very personal interest in the show.
“We cannot thank The Duke of Edinburgh enough for his guidance and wise counsel over so many years. The Horse Show Office will miss him greatly.”
Society for Nautical Research
“It is with great sadness that the Society for Nautical Research has learned of the passing of our patron, HRH the Duke of Edinburgh. His Royal Highness had a strong family connection with the society, his grandfather Prince Louis of Battenberg having been our founding President and his uncle Earl Mountbatten having been his immediate predecessor as patron.
“He always took a keen interest in the society’s affairs, presiding over a reception at the Banqueting House in Whitehall to mark the SNR’s 75th anniversary and opening the SNR-funded exhibition showcasing HMS Victory’s foretopsail in 2005. He contributed a foreword to the centenary history, The Mirror of the Seas, and it was entirely typical of both his interest in the SNR and his lifelong love of technological advances that his last communication to the society was to wish us well upon the launch of our podcast in October 2020.
“He will be sorely missed, and we send our condolences to The Queen and the Royal Family.”
The Angling Trust & Fish Legal
A statement from Jamie Cook, Chief Executive:
“His Royal Highness was a lifelong angler who passed on that gift through every generation of his family. He was also a staunch conservationist and has left a legacy through each generation which has amplified the need to protect our natural environment. His support and patronage of the ACA and later Fish Legal was testament to his commitment in this area. We send our sincere condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and to the family of His Royal Highness at this sad time.”
The Associations of Gordonstoun
Statement from Lisa Kerr, the Principal of Gordonstoun:
“The Gordonstoun community joins together in conveying our sincerest condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and all the Royal Family at this very sad time. Students and staff at Gordonstoun remember HRH The Duke of Edinburgh as someone who made students feel at ease in his presence and who shared their love of Gordonstoun. He had an immensely strong character, combined with a unique sense of fun, infectious optimism and strong sense of duty.
“More than anything, he understood and was hugely supportive of Gordonstoun’s educational ethos, of not only fulfilling academic potential but also of developing life skills through experiences outside the classroom, including sailing and community service. We are immensely grateful for his support over the years and his presence and support in the school’s life will be sorely missed.”
The Camping and Caravanning Club – patron since 1952
Statement from Sabina Voysey, The Camping and Caravanning Club’s Director General:
“One of Prince Philip’s earliest engagements as The Queen’s Consort included a visit to the Club’s stand at the annual British Food Fair at Olympia in September 1952. It was the start of a long tradition of involvement from our Patron and one we are incredibly proud of.
“In the years that followed, Prince Philip was a supporter of the Club, camping and caravanning, and the great outdoors and in particular the many benefits these bring to young people.
“On behalf of the Club I would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family – we are deeply saddened by the loss.”
The Cartoon Museum
Statement from Oliver Preston, Chairman of the Board of The Cartoon Museum:
“So sad to hear the news of the passing of our patron of The Cartoon Museum Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh. Wonderful man, great sense of humour, who took all the piquant caricatures and cartoons in his stride. Our deepest sympathies to HM The Queen and his family.”
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Statement from Ruth Marvel, Chief Executive of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award:
“The Duke’s timeless vision for young people has never been more relevant or needed. The DofE has played a crucial role in supporting young people to survive and thrive despite the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, and we will continue to build on his legacy.
“The Duke was a lifelong advocate for young people, believing in each individual’s potential and creating in the DofE what he saw as a ‘do-it-yourself growing up kit’. We’re honoured to continue HRH’s work, to ensure that all young people – especially those from marginalised groups – can benefit from the better educational outcomes, employment prospects, community ties and better mental health that are associated with doing DofE.”
The Pakistan Society
Statement by Sir William Blackburne, Chairman of the Society:
“It is with the greatest sadness that we record the death earlier today of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. The Duke had been patron of The Pakistan Society since 1953, the year of The Queen’s coronation. He was steadfast in his support of the Society throughout his many years of royal patronage.
“He last attended a Society event when he was chief guest at the Society’s 64th Annual Dinner in May 2017, very shortly before his retirement from public life. We can say with confidence that he will be sorely missed by every member of The Pakistan Society and, more widely, by the British Pakistani community.”
