Low-key celebrations as Philip turns 95
The Duke of Edinburgh celebrates his 95th birthday today - but is likely to want a fuss-free day.
The Duke of Edinburgh celebrates his 95th birthday today - but is likely to want a fuss-free day.
While the country's attention will be focused on the Queen and national celebrations this weekend to mark her 90th birthday, Philip will enter his 96th year.
The Duke's big day coincides with a St Paul's Cathedral service of thanksgiving for the life of the monarch, due to be attended by senior members of the Royal Family, David Cameron and dignitaries from across the globe.
Philip continues to be a constant presence at the side of the monarch during many of her official duties and he carries out hundreds of public engagements in his own right.
The Duke's life has been a full one and perhaps his greatest achievement has been the success of his Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme - which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and has inspired generations of young people to push themselves in a range of disciplines.
Despite a brief concern about his health last week when he cancelled an appearance, following medical advice, at commemorations marking the First World War Battle of Jutland, the Queen's consort appears well and in good spirits.
The Duke did not attend hospital and was soon carrying out public engagements both at Buckingham Palace and with the public.
His birthday will be marked with traditional gun salutes with the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery firing 41 volleys at midday in Hyde Park.
The Band of the Royal Artillery will play as the 71 groomed horses pull the six First World War-era 13-pounder field guns into position, before the blank rounds are fired at 10-second intervals.
An hour later, the Honourable Artillery Company will fire a 62-gun salute across the Thames at the Tower of London after travelling through the city in their liveried Pinzgauer vehicles.
Royal Salutes normally feature 21 volleys but this is increased to 41 if fired from a royal park or residence and at the Tower of London, also a home of monarchs - a further 21 guns are added for the City of London citizens to show their loyalty to the sovereign.
Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark was born on the island of Corfu on June 10 1921 to Prince Andrew of Greece and Princess Alice of Battenberg.
His early years were marked by upheaval after the family went into exile following a military coup in Greece which overthrew Philip's uncle, King Constantine I.
He moved to England to stay with relatives and study at Cheam Prep School in 1928, before spending a year at Salem School in south Germany, then finally enrolling at Gordonstoun School in Morayshire.
Philip went on to join the Royal Navy and, while a cadet, he caught the eye of a 13-year-old Princess Elizabeth.
He served with distinction during the Second World War and his friendship with the Princess grew into love and they married in 1947. Five years later, George VI died and Princess Elizabeth became Queen.
The Duke, who is known for his no-nonsense approach and acerbic wit, is the longest-serving consort in British history and also the oldest-serving partner of a reigning monarch.