The Pirbright Institute was deeply saddened by the news that His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh had passed away, aged 99, on 9 April. The Institute flag was lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect.
As the UK's official period of national mourning draws to a close, Pirbright shares rare archive images of The Duke of Edinburgh’s visit to the Institute 65 years ago.
On 10 April 1956, Prince Philip, aged 34, visited the site to find out more about the groundbreaking research being carried out. His was the first signature in the visitors book.
Prince Philip flew to the Institute in a Navy helicopter, which he piloted himself. After landing in the field behind the Administration Block, His Royal Highness met with staff and scientists and toured the facilities, where he was given a demonstration of an early transmission electron microscope.
It was an honour to host His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh at Pirbright.
Our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this difficult time.
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