Union flags have been lowered to half mast at official buildings across Maldon, from the council offices to the Moot Hall and at all police, fire and RNLI stations across Essex following the announcement this morning (Friday, 9 April) of the death of HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.

Town Mayor of Maldon, Councillor Abdul Hafiz, said: "On behalf of the residents of Maldon, councillors and officers of Maldon Town Council I would like to express our profound sadness on hearing the news of the death of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.

"Our thoughts are with Her Majesty and all of the Royal Family at this sad time. The Union Flag at the Moot Hall in Maldon has been lowered to half-mast."

Councillor Mark Heard, Chairman of Maldon District Council, said: "The councillors and officers of Maldon District Council are deeply saddened at the news of the death of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.

"Our thoughts are with Her Majesty and all of the Royal Family at this sad time. The Union Flags at the council offices, Maldon, Promenade Park, Maldon, and Riverside Park, Burnham-on-Crouch, have been lowered to half-mast."

A national online book of condolence will be available via the link here.