Readers have joined millions around the world in paying their condolences to the Duke of Edinburgh who passed away yesterday at the age of 99.

The country is in a period of national mourning following the death of Prince Philip, husband of the Queen for more than 70 years.

The Royal Family announced just after midday on Friday that the Duke had passed away peacefully at Windsor Castle earlier that morning.

Here is a selection of tributes from readers and local politicians who have been paying their respects to the Queen and her family.

Michael Mindt wrote in to say: "Very sad to read this news. I am sure he will be sorely missed. A valued member of the Royal Family who brought much to the role with his innovative and unique style.

"Condolences to HM The Queen and the rest of the Royal Family. May he Rest In Peace."

Diane Ammerlaan said: "We the Amnerlaan family would like to send our condolences for the loss of the Duke of Edinburgh. He will be missed. A very easy going person who carried out his goals in good faith."

And Marine Caughy got in touch from Canada to say: "To the Queen and the royal family, I am so sorry for your loss. I never met Prince Philip , but i am sure he loved all his family very much. He will be very much missed, but remember in will always be in your heart."

Watford Observer:

Prince Philip pictured at the opening of Woodside Playing Fields in 1955. Credit: Watford Museum

See more: When Prince Philip was invited to open a new running track in Watford

Jehangir Sarosh OBE had the fortune to meet Prince Philip on a number of occasions.

Mr Sarosh, who lives in Bushey, said: "One cannot express fully the sadness one feels following the news of the death of His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh.

"I had the honour and joy of being with His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh at different occasions. I remember well an occasion where there were just 10 or 12 of us considering a particular project where his joviality and sense of humour not only put me at ease in the Royal company but while he maintained his position he made me feel equal. That was the greatness of the man.

"Our deepest condolences to our beloved Queen."

Flags have been flying at half-mast across Hertfordshire, including outside Hertfordshire Constabulary's headquarters in Welwyn Garden City, and outside council offices in Watford, Rickmansworth, and Borehamwood.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor joined Watford Borough Council chairman, Aga Dychton, in laying a wreath at the town's peace memorial.

The town's MP Dean Russell tweeted yesterday: "Very sorry to hear the sad news that His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, has passed away today. HRH was an exceptional Ambassador for the Royal Family and will be sadly mourned by many across the UK and beyond. #HRHPrincePhilip".

The chairman of the Watford Labour Group, Cllr Asif Khan, said: "The UK has lost an extraordinary public servant in Prince Philip. He dedicated his life to our country and above all, he'll be remembered for his support and devotion to Her Majesty the Queen. All of our thoughts are with Her Majesty the Queen, the Royal Family and the British Public as they come together to mourn his death."

In Three Rivers, the leaders of the Liberal Democrat, Conservative, Labour, and Independent groups, issued the following joint statement.

They said: "On behalf of all residents in Three Rivers, we are deeply saddened by the news of the death of HRH, The Duke of Edinburgh. We would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty the Queen and Royal Family.

"At this sad time, we remember with gratitude the lifetime of selfless public service given by His Royal Highness, representing the United Kingdom around the world."

South West Hertfordshire MP Gagan Mohindra described Prince Philip as an "excellent servant to our country", while Hertsmere's MP Oliver Dowden said the Duke set an example of "unstinting service to our nation".

The Lord lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss, said: "On behalf of the people of #Hertfordshire I send my sincerest condolences to Her Majesty and members of The Royal Family. His Royal Highness’s many years of devoted service to The Queen and this country were unfailingly as was his sense of duty and devotion to many causes."

A two minute silence was held before Watford's game against Reading last night at Vicarage Road.

Watford Observer:

Credit: PA

Earlier in the day, Watford tweeted an image of Prince Philip, accompanied by a yellow heart.