Prince Philip: Scotland pays tribute to 'a remarkable man'

Tributes have been paid in Scotland to the Duke of Edinburgh following his death at the age of 99.

Political leaders have sent their condolences to the royal family and parties have suspended their Scottish Parliament election campaigns.

Presiding Officer Ken McIntosh said flags at Holyrood had been lowered as a mark of respect.

The organisers of the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme described him as "a remarkable man".

Prince Philip had a long and close association with Scotland which dates back to his school days in the 1930s.

He attended Gordonstoun in Moray, and he and the Queen were regular visitors to the Balmoral estate in Royal Deeside for many decades.

He was chancellor of Edinburgh University for more than 50 years, and also founded the Duke of Edinburgh Award to celebrate the achievements of young people.

The organisers of the award, which was launched 65 years ago, described him as an "inspirational champion of young people".

Director Helen Anderson said: "The duke was a remarkable man who achieved so much in his life. It was through his sheer determination, drive and vision that the Duke of Edinburgh's Award became the success it is today.

"The DofE started in Scotland which is a heritage we are incredibly proud of. This legacy has helped transform the lives of thousands of young people in Scotland, and millions more around the world."

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said Prince Philip, who became the Duke of Edinburgh in 1947, had "deep and longstanding" ties to Scotland.

She said: "From his patronage of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme, to his close association with the University of Edinburgh as chancellor for over 50 years and his commitments to countless charities and organisations, Prince Philip's long contribution to public life in Scotland will leave a profound mark on its people."

Ms Sturgeon said a book of condolences would be opened in the coming days.

Flowers were left at the gates of Balmoral Castle shortly after news of Prince Philip's death emerged. However, the Royal household has asked the public not to leave floral tributes or gather at the Palace of Holyroodhouse or Balmoral.

"The palace has suggested that people could donate to charity instead, if they wish to do so," added Ms Sturgeon.

Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross said the prince's death was "a reminder of what's most important in life".

He said: "We have lost a tremendous public servant who for decades served his Queen and country. My heartfelt condolences are with Her Majesty and all of the Royal Family."

Anas Sarwar, Scottish Labour leader, said the country was mourning the loss of "a dedicated public servant" who contributed "so much to our country".

He said: "Prince Philip had a deep love for Scotland and we will now come together as a country to remember his life and mark his distinguished career."

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said the prince was "often colourful, sometimes controversial, but always dedicated to his wife, the Queen, and to his country.

"Prince Philip's passing marks the end of a great life, well lived."

Alba Party leader Alex Salmond said no one could question Prince Philip's record of public service as the longest serving consort in history.

He added: "On a personal level I found Prince Philip direct and forthright but always welcoming and with a fine, inquiring mind."

The Scottish Greens also expressed their sympathies.

Gordonstoun school said it had learned of Prince Philip's death "with great sadness", and sent its condolences to the Queen and the Royal Family.

The school's principal, Lisa Kerr, said: "He had an immensely strong character, combined with a unique sense of fun, infectious optimism and strong sense of duty.

"We are immensely grateful for his support over the years and his presence and support in the school's life will be sorely missed."

Condolences were also expressed by a spokesperson for the Castle of Mey, which was purchased by the Queen Mother in 1952, while Balmoral Castle tweeted a black image as a mark of mourning.

David Geddes, president of the Braemar Royal Highland Society, which organises the Braemar Gathering, said: "It was an honour and a privilege to welcome HRH The Duke of Edinburgh to the Gathering each year up until his retirement from public duty."

Tributes have also been paid by religious leaders.

The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, the Rt Rev Dr Martin Fair, said: "Prince Philip's naval service to our country in time of war, his enormous service to the nation afterwards, and his support of many organisations and charities in industry, education, conservation and sport have been an example to many."

The Catholic Church's Bishop of Aberdeen, Hugh Gilbert, said: "I will pray for the repose of his soul and that those closest to him may find comfort at this time of loss through the memories they shared of his long, full life dedicated to public service."

The Muslim Council of Scotland also expressed "deep condolences".

Meanwhile, Chief Constable Iain Livingstone said Police Scotland would take time to pay respects to Prince Philip in the coming days.

"Whether at the side of Her Majesty the Queen or making his own visits to organisations, his interest in and support of those who serve Scotland and our communities was clear to everyone," he said.