His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh passed away on the morning of 9 April after 70 years of loyal public service. He was a friend to the British Virgin Islands, first visiting in 1966 and then in 1977 and 1993.

The funeral will take place at Windsor Castle on Saturday, 17 April, at 10:00 a.m. BVI local time. The Governor invites everyone across the Territory to observe a minute’s silence in honour of The Prince Philip.

Leading up to the funeral, the Governor has opened a book of condolence at the Old Government House Museum, where the Duke of Edinburgh visited and had lunch. The book of condolence will be open to the public from 12 noon today (Monday, 12 April) to 3:00 p.m. and then 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. each working day until Friday, 16 April.

Covid-19 protocols must be observed when signing the book, and mourners are asked to bring their own pen and wear a mask. Visitors should park on the road outside the Governor’s Office and walk through the main gate to the museum.

A virtual condolence book is also available online at the www.royal.uk website.

Governor John Rankin said:

“I thank everyone who has already sent messages remembering The Duke of Edinburgh’s visits to the British Virgin Islands. All those wishing to pay their respects are invited to do so by signing the condolence book and joining the minute’s silence”.

The Palace does not expect, nor would encourage, the sending of a wreath or flowers. If people wish to do so, a donation to a charity would be welcome. Information on charities with which the Duke of Edinburgh was involved is available at www.royal.uk.