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12 April 2021
Following the sad passing of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh on Friday (9 April 2021), Reigate & Banstead residents can pay their respects in a number of ways during the period of national mourning.
An online national book of condolence is open on the British Monarchy website at www.royal.uk to allow people to pay tribute to His Royal Highness.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, we are sadly not able to host physical books of condolence at the Town Hall as would normally be the case. However, Reigate & Banstead residents without access to the internet can send us their written tributes for inclusion in a loose-leaf Book of Condolence, addressed to ‘Book of Condolence’, Castlefield Road, Town Hall, Reigate RH2 0SH. We also have a dedicated post box at the Town Hall for people wishing to deliver their notes of condolence by hand.
We are supporting the Royal Household and the Government in their request that gathering should not take place and floral tributes should not be laid at Royal Residences or in public spaces at this time in light of the current restrictions.
Instead, The Royal Family is inviting members of the public to make a donation “in remembrance” to a cause closely identified with the Duke of Edinburgh or to a charity of their choice. Details of these can be found on the British Monarchy website at www.royal.uk/charities-and-patronages.
The ceremonial funeral of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh will be held on Saturday 17 April at 3pm. The funeral service will begin with a national one minute silence.
We understand that this is a sad time and people would like to express their grief and pay their respects. The Council is asking its communities to please remember to follow current government public health advice in paying their respects by avoiding meeting in large groups and on minimising travel. In particular, residents are being asked not to attend any events associated with the funeral of His Royal Highness.
As a mark of respect, the Union Flag at the Town Hall is being flown at half-mast until the period of national mourning has come to an end. A minute’s silence will also be held at the next Council meeting in remembrance.
The Council will share any further updates on our website, www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk, on Twitter at @reigatebanstead and on Facebook at LoveReigateandBanstead.
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