THE Isle of Wight Council has released a statement on the passing of HRH, Prince Philip.

"The councillors and officers of the Isle of Wight Council are deeply saddened to learn of the death of His Royal Highness, The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and extends (its) heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and members of the Royal Family at this time.

"We remember with immense gratitude his lifetime of service to Her Majesty and the country and his fondness for the Island.

"Flags at County Hall have been set to half-mast.

"We are supporting the Royal Household in asking that floral tributes should not be laid at this time.

"The Royal Family ask that members of the public consider making a donation to a charity instead of leaving floral tributes.

"A national online book of condolence is available on the Royal Family website.

"People who wish to offer messages of condolence are encouraged to complete this online.

"Physical books of condolence will also be available at council libraries from Monday April 12 as our libraries reopen in a Covid-secure way and in line with the roadmap.

"People are advised to bring their own pens to help manage the transmission of Covid-19."