Tributes to Prince Philip who had such a close link and friendship with Hartlepool

David McKnight who paid tribute to Prince Philip's 'profound impact' on Hartlepool.

He was remembered in town today as a Prince who had huge respect for everyone he met in Hartlepool and that respect was returned in kind.

The Duke of Edinburgh was the patron of the HMS Trincomalee Trust which was a position he took up in 1992. Before that, he was closely involved in the project to restore HMS Warrior in Hartlepool.

David McKnight, who was general manager and chief executive of the Trust from 2010 to 2016, recalled meeting the Duke of Edinburgh on more than one occasion at Buckingham Palace and Trinity House.

David McKnight in 2012 during his time as general manager and chief executive of the HMS Trincomalee Trust.

He was always impressed with Prince Philip’s knowledge of the Trincomalee.

"The longest conversation I had with him was about her restoration and comparing and contrasting it with Cutty Sark. He talked with expert knowledge and he had that knowledge at his fingertips.

"He was a hugely important figure but his courtesy and respect for everyone in Hartlepool was immense, both the staff of the Trincomalee and the trustees as well. I had six remarkable years in Hartlepool and he was front and centre of that.”

Mr McKnight praised Prince Philip for his ‘profound impact and nowhere more so than in the North East and Hartlepool. His support of the Trincomalee and the Trust put the Trincomalee on the map and reinforced Hartlepool as a key maritime centre.”

HMS Trincomalee general manager David McKnight on the mess deck of HMS Trincomalee in 2015.

Professor Dominic Tweddle is Director General of the National Museum of the Royal Navy which has a centre in Hartlepool where HMS Trincomalee is a huge attraction.

He said: “HRH The Duke of Edinburgh was a staunch supporter of the museums which make up The National Museum of the Royal Navy.

“Our staff and volunteers have always been honoured by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh’s involvement with the museum which has spanned decades,

"The museum team thanks HRH The Duke of Edinburgh for his support for the museum throughout his life, and sends their condolences to the Royal Family during this time.”

Prince Philip paid a visit to HMS Trincomalee in 2009.

Did you get to meet Prince Philip during his visits to the town? Share your memories by emailing [email protected]

9 pictures of Prince Philip in Hartlepool and East Durham as we pay tribute to t...

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