Council's sadness following the death of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh

Councillor Brenda Loynes, the Ceremonial Mayor of Hartlepool, said: “Our thoughts are with Her Majesty The Queen and the other members of the Royal Family, and on behalf of the Council and the residents of Hartlepool I will be writing to convey our sympathy.

“Prince Philip visited Hartlepool on a number of occasions over the years and I know many residents remember those occasions with great fondness.

"In particular, His Royal Highness visited Hartlepool in 1980 to witness HMS Warrior’s restoration in progress. The Duke of Edinburgh also accompanied Her Majesty The Queen when she officially opened our new marina in 1993."

The flags at Civic Centre are being flown at half-mast as a sign of respect.

People wishing to leave messages of condolence are asked to please leave them on a national online Book of Condolence which has been opened at www.royal.uk/condolence