CHURCHES across Devon have been marking the death of the Duke of Edinburgh by flying their flags at half-mast and tolling bells.

Many of them will also be open during the national period of mourning for people to pray or light a candle and lay floral tributes.

A number of special commemorative services are also planned and it is suggested that churches across England toll a bell at noon on today, Saturday.

The Bishop of Exeter, the Rt Rev Robert Atwell, said: ‘The death of the Duke of Edinburgh is a personal loss for Her Majesty the Queen and their family and a great loss for our nation.

‘Prince Philip has been at the Queen’s side throughout her reign and we honour his constancy and service.’

The Bishop of Crediton, the Rt Rev Jackie Searle, paid tribute to his role creating the Duke of Edinburgh Award: ‘Amongst his many achievements what stands out for me is the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.

‘My deepest sympathy and prayers are with her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family as they mourn their loss and ours.’

The Church of England has opened an online book of condolence for people to sign as an alternative to physical books of condolence in churches and other public buildings, due to coronavirus restrictions.

Churches which decide to have a commemorative display to remember the Duke of Edinburgh will also be able to display a QR code so people can scan it with their phones to contribute to the online book.

Prince Philip is also being mourned by church members across Devon.

Annie Jeffries, who as Chair of the House of Laity, represents lay people in the diocese, said: ‘On behalf of all of lay people across the Diocese of Exeter, I would like to extend our deepest sorrow at the news, that HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh had died.

‘He was an exceptional man who will be always remembered for his amazing legacy and service to the Queen and this country.’

The Bishop of Exeter will be leading a commemorative service for the Duke of Edinburgh at Exeter Cathedral. It will be livestreamed on the Cathedral Facebook page.

There will also be a service at St Andrew’s, the minster church of Plymouth, led by the Bishop of Plymouth.

The dates and times of these services have yet to be confirmed but will be updated on the Diocese of Exeter website as soon as possible.

The commemorative service for Torbay will be held at St Paul’s Church, Paignton, on Thursday, April 14, and the Bishop of Crediton will be preaching.

Due to coronavirus restrictions, it will not be open to the public but will be livestreamed by Torbay council.

The Bishop of Exeter has recorded a tribute statement and prayer which youcan view at https://vimeo.com/534832690