FIFE COUNCIL’S royal representative and the Provost have paid tribute to HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, who has died at the age of 99.

Robert W Balfour, the Royal-appointed Lord-Lieutenant of Fife, has expressed a “profound feeling of gratitude” for the Duke’s life of service, while Provost Jim Leishman MBE said he intended to send a personal message of condolence to the Royal Family on behalf of the Kingdom.

During his time in the Royal Navy, it's understood that Prince Philip was stationed at Rosyth during the Second World War while serving on a Destroyer and he made many subsequent visits to West Fife, including the dockyard, while his last came when he accompanied the Queen at the official opening of the Queensferry Crossing in 2017.

Lord-Lieutenant Balfour said: “The people of Fife join with the whole country in being deeply saddened by the death of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.

“There is a profound feeling of gratitude for his contribution to the life of the nation.

"After active service in the Royal Navy, he gave a long lifetime of service to the Queen and country, offering his own contributions from a wide range of interests, including science and technology, nature and environment, sport and industry.

“The Duke supported over 700 charities but one of the most widely-known and respected is the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which has enriched the lives of generations of young people.

“On behalf of everyone in Fife, I send our sincere condolences to Her Majesty and the Royal Family.”

Provost Leishman added: “I was very sad to hear about the death of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.

“Prince Philip has visited Fife many times along with Her Majesty the Queen and showed great interest in local industry, culture and heritage.

“He has been a superb support to our Queen since her investiture in 1952 and is known particularly for his Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which continues to transform the lives of young people.

“I will be sending a personal message of condolence from the people of Fife to Her Majesty today.”

The prince was born in Corfu in 1921 and married Princess Elizabeth in 1947, five years before she was crowned Queen.

Earlier this year, he spent a month in hospital after undergoing treatment for a pre-existing heart condition.

The Royal Family announced Prince Philip’s death shortly after noon on Friday.