The Duke of Edinburgh – quizzical, witty and controversial – was the Queen’s greatest source of support, her confidant and the man she relied on above all others.
His lifelong role was to ensure that he never let her down and their long-lasting marriage was arguably one of the world’s best-known relationships.
Although he was not officially given the title of Prince Consort, Philip – a private, enigmatic man of strong character – was always there, one step behind, ready to lend the Queen a helping hand.
Through his stewardship, he had a profound effect on the development of the British monarchy.
Prince Philip and The Queen s lifetime of love and laughter, from practical jokes to lasting romance
EXCLUSIVE Following Prince Philip s passing at the age of 99, we take a look back at a lifetime of laughter he shared with Queen Elizabeth.
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The Duke of Edinburgh – quizzical, witty and controversial – was the Queen’s greatest source of support, her confidant and the man she relied on above all others.
His lifelong role was to ensure that he never let her down and their long-lasting marriage was arguably one of the world’s best-known relationships.
Although he was not officially given the title of Prince Consort, Philip – a private, enigmatic man of strong character – was always there, one step behind, ready to lend the Queen a helping hand.
Through his stewardship, he had a profound effect on the development of the British monarchy.
But those close to Philip always insisted claims of affairs were untrue.
Even the duke himself strongly rejected the rumours, and bemoaned the press’s perception of his female friends.
Philip with his former private secretary, Lieutenant-Commander Mike Parker, who insisted the duke was 100% faithful to the Queen (PA)
“As far as I’m concerned, every time I talk to a woman, they say I’ve been to bed with her – as if she had no say in the matter,” he once told broadcaster Jeremy Paxman.
He added: “Well, I’m bloody flattered at my age to think some girl is interested in me. It’s absolutely cuckoo.”
The Duke of Edinburgh rejected rumours of affairs (PA)
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But those close to Philip always insisted claims of affairs were untrue.
Even the duke himself strongly rejected the rumours, and bemoaned the press’s perception of his female friends.
Philip with his former private secretary, Lieutenant-Commander Mike Parker, who insisted the duke was 100% faithful to the Queen (PA)
“As far as I’m concerned, every time I talk to a woman, they say I’ve been to bed with her – as if she had no say in the matter,” he once told broadcaster Jeremy Paxman.