Here's How COVID Impacted Prince Philip's Funeral Plans
Citizens of England are mourning the death of Prince Philip, who died Friday April 9th, 2021 at the age of 99 (via BBC). With COVID-19 restrictions still in place around the world, this initially left the public with questions as to how the funeral arrangements would be carried out and how they could safely pay their respects to the royal family.
The ceremony is scheduled to take place Saturday, April 17th, 2021 in the form of a procession beginning at the State Entrance of Windsor Castle and concluding at St. George's chapel. With global health officials still urging the need for social distancing to safeguard against the COVID-19 virus, the ceremony will abide by England's government guidelines where large events must remain limited and funerals are permitted to have a maximum of 30 in-person attendees. At this time, known attendees will include grandson Harry, the Duke of Sussex, though his wife Meghan has been medically advised against air travel for the health and safety of her pregnancy (via CNN).
Social distancing and crowd control measures have been put in place for the day of the ceremony
Other protective measures have been put in place by officials, including the wearing of face masks by all attendees as well as efforts to maintain crowd control in the event of unplanned gathering by the public (via BBC). To further reduce the chances of large crowds forming, both the government and the royal family have asked residents to refrain from congregating and have advised against leaving flowers and other tributes of condolence at the residence (via CNN).
Instead, alternatives have been offered as to how people who wish to do so can pay their respects, such as making monetary donations to suggested charitable organizations in the duke's memory or by submitting written condolences for the royal family through their designated online portal.
With COVID-19 restrictions in place, the ceremony is anticipated to be "low key" but nonetheless rich in tribute to Prince Philip and the life and legacy that he led.