THE Archbishop of York has paid tribute to His Royal Highness Prince Philip, after his death earlier today.

The Royal Family announced the news of the Duke of Edinburgh's passing in a statement earlier today.

On the news, The Archbishop of York the Most Rev Stephen Cottrell said: "I join with many of you across the country as we mourn the death of His Royal Highness Prince Philip.

"Prince Philip was a remarkable man who lived a life of service dedicated to his country, to his wife, Queen Elizabeth ll and his family.

"Having become the longest serving British consort, Prince Philip has been unstinting in his support, leading her Majesty to famously comment 'he has, quite simply, been my strength and stay all these years'.

"His faith in Jesus Christ was an important part of his life and once which shaped who he was.

"Prince Philip was a patron to hundreds of charitable organisations, covering a wide range of disciplines all of which benefitted from his wit and wisdom and his inquisitive mind.

"Do join me in praying for members of the Royal Family as they mourn and may God bring them comfort. As we give thanks to God for a life lived to the full, may Prince Philip rest in peace and rise in glory."