FLAGS outside police stations across County Durham, Darlington and North Yorkshire are being flown at half-mast as the region's forces pay respects to His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh.

The Union flag was lowered outside police headquarters in Aykley Heads and other Durham Constabulary and North Yorkshire buildings on Friday following the announcement of the Duke’s death at the age of 99 by Buckingham Palace.

Durham Police Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: “Everyone at Durham Constabulary was deeply saddened to learn of the death of His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh.

“It is a profoundly sad day for our nation and a profoundly sad day for the policing family.

“His was a long life built on values of dedication, duty, service and commitment – a shining example which inspires police officers and staff across the country, but especially here in Durham.

“But let us not forget he was also a husband, a father, a grandfather and a great grandfather.

"Our thoughts are with Her Majesty The Queen and we offer our deepest condolences to all of the Royal Family and all those who mourn his loss”.