Royal thanks

The Duke of Edinburgh has made a rare public statement, praising those tackling the coronavirus pandemic across the UK and keeping essential services running – including Royal Mail colleagues.

Prince Philip, who retired from public duties in 2017, said he wanted to recognise the ‘vital and urgent’ medical and scientific work taking place. The duke also gave thanks to key workers including colleagues and those involved in refuse collection and food production and distribution.

In his message, published on the royal family’s social media channels, he 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 in food production and distribution, those keeping postal and delivery services going, and those ensuring the rubbish continues to be collected.’

The Duke is among a host of public figures to praise our people for the extraordinary job they are doing delivering for our customers and keeping the country connected.

Watch our latest RMtv programme to hear health secretary, Matt Hancock, former postman and home secretary, Alan Johnson, and Paralympic swimming champion, Claire Cashmore MBE each express their own thanks to colleagues for playing their part in the national effort to fight coronavirus.