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PRINCE Philip died at the age of 99, just two months short of his 100th birthday.

The hard-working royal stood by the Queen's side for more than seven decades before passing away "peacefully" at Windsor Castle on Friday, April 9.

Prince Philip died at the age of 99 after spending a month in hospital in early 2021
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Prince Philip died at the age of 99 after spending a month in hospital in early 2021Credit: Getty Images - Getty

What was Prince Philip's cause of death?

died on the morning of April 9, 2021, at Windsor Castle.

The Duke's cause of death was officially classed as old age.

The veteran royal spent his longest ever stint in hospital prior to his death.

Why was Prince Philip in hospital in 2021?

Prince Philip was taken to London’s King Edward VII Hospital as a precaution on February 16 after feeling unwell.

He travelled by car from Windsor Castle and was said to be in "good spirits" after walking into the private hospital without aid.

Two weeks later, he was transferred to St Bart’s Hospital for treatment for an infection and heart condition.

Buckingham Palace then announced on Tuesday, March 16, 2021, he had been released from hospital and was in "good spirits" and feeling "comfortable".

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Philip had dedicated his life to the Queen and tragically died just before his 100th birthday in June 2021.

In the years before his death, the Duke - who retired from his public duties at the age of 96 in 2017 after 65 years of public life - had struggled with ill-health.

He spent time in hospital before Christmas in 2019 following a fall.

The Duke was also involved in a car crash in January 2019 after his vehicle collided with another near the Sandringham estate.

His health scares in later life included heart problems, arthritis, abdominal surgery and bladder infections. 

In April 2018 he had a hip replacement operation but had recovered well for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding just a month later.

The Duke of Edinburgh as he left hospital on March 16, 2021
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The Duke of Edinburgh as he left hospital on March 16, 2021Credit: AFP

How did the Palace announce his death?

Buckingham Palace issued a statement following the Duke's death, telling of the Queen's "deep sorrow".

It said: "It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

"His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.

"Further announcements will made in due course.

"The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss."

The Royal Family's official website switched to a holding page in memory of the duke.

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It featured a central image of Philip on a black background, accompanied by the Palace's statement.

BBC radio stations immediately interrupted broadcasts with the news of his death and played the national anthem shortly after in a sign of respect to the royal.

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