Mourners in UK discouraged from leaving floral tributes

Buckingham Palace has asked the public to refrain from leaving floral tributes to the Duke of Edinburgh.

Dozens of bouquets were laid by mourners after the announcement of Prince Philip's death at midday.

Royal household staff placed a framed notice announcing the duke's death on the front gates of the Palace.

But it was removed after an hour to avoid gatherings amid ongoing coronavirus disease pandemic restrictions.

The Palace was "discouraging people from leaving flowers because that brings people together", the BBC's royal correspondent Nicholas Witchell said.

The official notice read: "It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband."

It confirmed Prince Philip "passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle".

"Further announcements will be made in due course," it added."The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss."

A similar announcement was also displayed outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II in Scotland, in Edinburgh.

The Palace's flag was flown at half-mast.

More than 100 floral tributes - ranging from bunches of daffodils to fuller bouquets, many with notes attached - and two Union flags have been placed at the gates by mourners.

Stewards attempted to form an orderly queuing system for mourners but encouraged people not to form a large crowd.

Mounted police reminded those gathered to adhere to social-distancing guidelines and remain two-metres apart from other groups.-Photo: BBC/PA Media