Gun salute at Cardiff Castle as Wales honours Duke of Edinburgh
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A national minute’s silence for the funeral of the Duke of Edinburgh has been marked with a gun salute at Cardiff Castle.
A 105mm light gun was used to fire one round at 3pm to begin the minute’s silence and another at 3.01pm to end it in tandem with other saluting stations across the UK.
The ceremonial gun was operated by reservists from 104th Regiment Royal Artillery, based in Newport, in the castle grounds, which were closed to members of the public on Saturday.
It's mixed emotions as it's clearly a sad day. But, again, we're very proud to lead the country in mourning
Captain Helen Jasper told the PA news agency the regiment was “honoured” to have been asked to take part in the ceremony.
“It’s mixed emotions as it’s clearly a sad day. But, again, we’re very proud to lead the country in mourning.”
First Minister Mark Drakeford sent a flower wreath to the duke’s funeral to offer “sincere condolences” from the people of Wales.
The wreath, of white chrysanthemums and red roses, is accompanied by a short message written in English and Welsh and was sent to Windsor Castle ahead of Saturday’s funeral service at St George’s Chapel.
The card bearing the message says: “On behalf of the government and people of Wales.
“Cydymdeimlad diffuant – Sincere condolences.”
The Welsh Parliament was specially recalled on Monday following Philip’s death, for Members of the Senedd to offer tributes remotely.
Mr Drakeford told the Senedd the duke had lived an “exceptional life” while sustaining decades of public service, during which he held the title of Earl of Merioneth and championed “a broad diversity” of causes in Wales.
The Earl of Merioneth title was given to Philip on the day of his marriage, with the titles Baron Greenwich and Duke of Edinburgh.
The duke’s relationship with the historic county of Merioneth in North Wales included supporting a number of associations and societies, including its cricket club, sailing club and brass band.
In August 1960, Philip was given his Welsh bardic title Philip Meirionnydd by the archdruid of Wales, Mr Edgar Phillips, after being made an Honorary Ovate (graduate) of the Gorsedd of Bards at the National Eisteddfod in Cardiff.
A Welsh Government spokesman said it was not known where the wreath would be featured at Saturday’s funeral service.
