All the major parties have announced that they have ceased campaigning for the local elections scheduled for May 6 2021, following the death of Prince Philip yesterday.

There will be a meeting in due course to decide when the campaigns can resume.

Tributes have been paid to the Duke of Edinburgh, who passed away yesterday morning at Windsor Castle aged 99.

The Northumberland Labour, Conservative, and Liberal Democrat leaders, as well as the County Council, have expressed their sorrows and condolences.

Coun. Ian Hutchinson, civic head of Northumberland county council said, on behalf of the authority: “Northumberland County Council is deeply saddened by the passing of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. We join with the rest of the nation to offer our deepest condolences to Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family.

“The Queen and the Duke visited Northumberland on a number of occasions, most memorably in 1958 when the Royal Yacht Britannia anchored off the Northumberland coast, on a visit to Holy Island.

“Prince Philip will long be remembered for his dedication to his role as Consort and support to Her Majesty and also for his commitment to the many causes he championed.”

Council leader Glen Sanderson said: “It is very sad news. We have lost a very fine member of our Royal Family. Quick to serve, strong in nature and wholly loyal he was an example to us all. He will be greatly missed.”

Coun. Susan Dungworth, leader of Northumberland Labour and leader of the opposition, said: “We share the sorrow of the country. Prince Philip had served this country for over 70 years as consort to the Queen and has played a major part not just in royal family but in the country. We pass on our condolences to the Queen and to her family.”

Coun. Jeff Reid, leader of the Northumberland Liberal Democrats said: “Prince Philip has been a part of the country’s life for 70 years and has been around my whole life. It is very odd to think that he is not going to be around anymore. My sympathy goes to the Queen who must be devastated.  I hope the nation can rally around and come together and do something good in his memory.”