By Cecilia Nasmith

The Town of Cobourg has lowered flags to half-mast throughout its municipal buildings, parks and facilities in respect of the passing of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, at the age of 99.

These venues include Building 7, Chris Garrett Park, Cobourg Community Centre, Cobourg Police Services, the fire hall, Jubilee Park, Rotary Harbourfront Park, Venture 13 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre and Victoria Park. The Victoria Hall flagpoles are not equipped with halyards and pulleys that would allow the flags to be flown at half-mast as per Government of Canada rules, so the flags will be removed completely today.

Mayor John Henderson expressed his deep sorrow at the news of the passing of His Royal Highness, and recalled his life of service.

“He was well known for fulfilling more than 20,000 royal engagements, heading hundreds of charities, founding many children's programs and playing a prominent part in raising his four children, including his eldest son Prince Charles, the heir to the throne,” Henderson said.

“In honour of our long-established and enduring national relationship between Canada and Great Britain, the Town of Cobourg will be lowering its flags to half-mast to pay our respects to the Queen Elizabeth II and the Royal Family.”

Prince Philip was the longest-serving consort of the British monarchy, and passed away peacefully Friday morning at Windsor Castle.