Prince Philip became the Club’s Patron in 1952, and over the decades was involved in a number of events that we hosted or attended, as revealed in our picture story on p6 of your print magazine.

In 1957 he launched the ‘Duke’s Award’ – later to become the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – a scheme that has gone on to benefit thousands of youngsters from all over the country. The Club has a longstanding association with the scheme, and is a licensed Operating Authority.

Former Club Chairman Anne Dearling recalls her meeting with Prince Philip when collecting the licence at St James’s Palace, just a handful of years ago.

“When we arrived we joined many young people in and around the Palace who were there to receive their Gold Awards. We were given a tour of the Palace and heard from young people who had completed their Award and had managed to turn their life around because of it.

“Meeting His Royal Highness was a dream come true. He was so very easy to talk to, full of good humour and asked me how the Club would run the Scheme and keep young people interested in it. The licence hangs in the reception area of the Club’s Greenfields House today.

“Sadly, the day finished all too quickly but His Royal Highness kindly allowed me to have a photograph of the presentation – today it remains in pride of place in my home and it always will.”

Sabina Voysey, the Club’s Director General, said: “One of Prince Philip’s earliest engagements as the Queen’s Consort included a visit to the Club’s stand at the annual British Food Fair at Olympia in June 1952. It was the start of a long tradition of involvement from our Patron and one we are incredibly proud of.

“In the years that followed, Prince Philip was a supporter of the Club, camping and caravanning, and the great outdoors and in particular the many benefits these bring to young people. “On behalf of the Club I would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family – we are deeply saddened by the loss.”