Media playback is unsupported on your device Media caption Prince Philip joked with a guest during an engagement, shortly after his retirement was announced

The Duke of Edinburgh is retiring from royal duties this autumn, Buckingham Palace has announced. The royal, known as the Duke of Edinburgh, has suffered from heart disease and other ailments in recent years but has nonetheless maintained a vigorous public schedule. “In taking this decision, the duke has the full support of the queen.”

It said he would attend previously scheduled engagements until August, and would not accept any new invitations thereafter. "Prince Philip will attend previously scheduled engagements between now and August, both individually and accompanying The Queen. Thereafter, The Duke will not be accepting new invitations for visits and engagements, although he may still choose to attend certain public events from time to time. The Duke of Edinburgh 96 years old 70 years as Queen's companion 22,219 solo engagements since 1952

5,496 speeches given

785 organisations have him as patron, president or member

4 million people have taken part in Duke of Edinburgh Awards Getty Images

Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron said it was a moment to "celebrate and take stock" of the duke's "enormous achievements". “Her Majesty will continue to carry out a full programme of official engagements with the support of members of the Royal Family.”

This announcement came after The Queen summoned an all-staff meeting at Buckingham Palace.
Buckingham Palace announces that 95-year-old Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince consort of Queen Elizabeth II, will retire from royal duties in August.