CIVIC and police flags were lowered to half mast after the announcement of Prince Philip's death.

Cheshire Police lowered its Union flag over Crewe Police Station and Cheshire East Council did likewise with the authority's emblem and a Union flag in Memorial Square.

Cheshire East Council has extended its condolences to The Queen and all members of the Royal Family and the Royal Household.

A minute's silence is to be held at the council's Cabinet meeting next Tuesday (April 13).

Council leader Sam Corcoran said: "The death of the Duke of Edinburgh is an enormous loss not only to the Queen and the whole of the Royal Family but to the country and Commonwealth.

"Throughout her reign, the Queen, who has served this country for longer than any previous monarch, has been accompanied and supported by Prince Philip, her husband to whom she had been married for more than 70 years.

"Today, I have sent a message of condolence to Buckingham Palace on behalf of this council and the residents of Cheshire East. Flags on all council buildings will be flown at half mast and I would urge all businesses with a Union flag to do the same."

Mayor of Cheshire East Cllr Barry Burkhill added: "Prince Philip supported the work of our business leaders and entrepreneurs and our young people through his Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

"He served as a naval officer during the war and had the respect and admiration of our armed forces and military veterans. He played sport and believed passionately in conservation."