THE Duke of Edinburgh has died, Buckingham Palace has announced.

Prince Philip has died at the age of 99, it was announced this lunchtime. 

He was due to celebrate his 100th birthday on June 10 this year.

The Duke of Edinburgh had recently returned home after a successful procedure for a pre-existing heart condition.

The news of his death was announced in a statement on Twitter by the Royal Family on behalf of the Queen.

It said: “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

“His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.”

Prince Phillip was taken by car to the private King Edward VII’s Hospital in central London on February 16, after telling his doctor he felt unwell.

But two weeks later, he was moved to St Bartholomew’s Hospital in the City of London by ambulance.

The duke underwent a successful procedure on a pre-existing heart condition at Barts on March 3, just three months before his 100th birthday, before returning to King Edward VII’s a few days later to recuperate and continue his treatment.

Today's statement from the Royal Family added: "The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.

"Further announcements will be made in due course."