Prince Philip, 98, has issued a heartfelt statement amid the coronavirus crisis.

The Duke of Edinburgh is spending lockdown at Windsor Castle with the Queen.

While he retired from royal life in 2017 he has issued a moving statement to key workers amid the current pandemic.

Prince Philip’s statement in full

The Duke of Edinburgh said: “As we approach World Immunisation Week, I wanted to recognise the vital and urgent work being done by so many to tackle the pandemic; by those in the medical and scientific professions, at universities and research institutions, all united in working to protect us from Covid-19.

“On behalf of those of us who remain safe and at home, I also wanted to thank all key workers who ensure the infrastructure of our life continues; the staff and volunteers working on food production and distribution, those keeping postal and delivery services going, and those ensuring the rubbish continues to be collected.”