The Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, on behalf of all at Westminster Abbey, has paid tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh following his death today.
The Dean of Westminster said:
‘It is with profound sadness that we learn of the death of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, who served HM The Queen and our nation with an unwavering commitment. We remember, above all, a self-effacing sense of duty that has been a benchmark of moral purpose in public life for so many years. We note with deep gratitude his contribution to the military, charities and young people. We are also deeply thankful for his support of our Abbey church, including his work to raise funds for the restoration of the Abbey.’
The statement continued:
“HRH The Duke of Edinburgh had a long association with Westminster Abbey. On 20th November 1947, he married HRH Princess Elizabeth here (she became Queen in 1952), and they celebrated anniversaries including their Silver, Golden and Diamond Wedding anniversaries with services in the Abbey.
In 1956 he set up the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, the 60th anniversary of which was celebrated at a special service in November 2016. He was also President and Chairman of the Westminster Abbey Trust, set up in 1973, to raise funds for the restoration of the exterior of the Abbey.
For many years, His Royal Highness attended the annual Opening of the Field of Remembrance. Organised each year by The Poppy Factory, the Field of Remembrance sees thousands of poppies on wooden crosses and memorials, each representing a serviceman or servicewoman who has died in conflict, planted in the grounds of the Abbey. He also attended a great many other services and events at the Abbey over the years.
The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God.”
