Prince Philip: Tributes paid to the Duke of Edinburgh as he dies aged 99

Shoppers and groups of friends meeting for socially distanced coffee in the precinct spoke of their sympathy for Prince Philip’s family at this difficult time.

Many pointed out that it is sad that the prince did not make it to his 100th birthday on June 10, when he would have received a birthday telegram from his wife the Queen.

John and Joyce Lisseman, who have been married for 57 years, said their feelings go out to the Queen as she has lost her partner of more than seven decades.

The couple, who moved to Waterlooville from the West Midlands 14 years ago, spoke of their memories of following the royal family’s lives over the years.

John said: 'This is a sad occasion for the country, and it's very sad for the Queen.

'He's one of the last remaining royals of World War II.

'Prince Philip has done a wonderful job for the country and he will be remembered for a very long time. God bless his soul.'

Joyce added: 'The world is grieving.'

Tony and Jane Rice-Oxley left their lunch to fly an English flag at half-mast from the pole outside St George's Church.

The couple, who live in Denmead, are both involved in the church community.

Tony, the church hall manager, said: 'I think he has been a credit to the royalty.

'As a consort, he has provided an excellent example to others throughout the world.

'I have a lot of time for the man, and I think he has lived a fantastic life.

'It's sad that he didn't make it to his 100th, but he's certainly a man who was well thought of.'

Father Colin Lawlor, who said that a book of condolences would be put out at the church on Sunday, added: 'It's sad but a life well lived.'

Several people said they had only just heard the news and were still processing it.

Amongst them was David Pedler, who was born in Portsmouth and lives in Crookhorn.

David, who says that he has always been interested in the royal family, said: 'Prince Philip was a very outspoken man and he used to put his foot in it, but I'm very shocked to hear this.

'I really thought he'd go on forever - it's very sad news.'

Waterlooville resident Iona Longyear, 59, said: 'It's the family my heart goes out to, with all the troubles the family have gone through.

'He was always in the background supporting the Queen.'

Her daughter, Mary-Kate Sceal, 29, said: 'Can you imagine living without your husband of 73 years - I feel really sad for the family.'

Waterlooville shopper Sheila Cann, 88, said: 'I'm a royalist, I'm very keen on the monarchy and what they do.

'I think it's very sad, but I think Harry will get a surprise by the reception he gets when he comes back for the funeral, if they do.'

Others said that they did not agree with the system of the monarchy, but their hearts go out to his family at this time.

One such commentator said: 'He has conducted himself with respectability, god rest his soul. I'm sorry for the Queen.'