BBC newsreader Martine Croxall quickly changed into black to announce the passing of Prince Philip at age of 99 today.
Before news broke, the broadcast journalist was seen delivering the news wearing a brown, long sleeve dress with a gold necklace.
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When it came time to announce the Duke of Edinburgh’s passing, she removed her statement necklace and donned a black blazer over her dress.
Initially delivering the news, Martine, clad in her dress, began: “We’ve just received a statement from Buckingham Palace confirming that the Duke of Edinburgh has died”.
Suddenly the screen cut to a holding image as Martine could be heard saying, “We are interrupting our normal programmes to bring you an important announcement.”
Less than 10 seconds later, the camera turned back onto the newsreader, who was now clad in the black blazer, as she repeated news of the Duke’s passing statement.
As part of the BBC’s protocol during the announcement of royal deaths, broadcasters are asked to wear black out of respect to the Royal Family but also as a symbol of morning for the nation.
From today viewers will be seeing more public figures and presenters changing their wardrobes to that of black out of respect for the Duke.
The Duke of Edinburgh, who had been married to the Queen for 73 years and described as her constant strength, passed away “peacefully” this morning at Windsor Castle.
A statement released by the Royal Family read: “It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces 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. Further announcements will made in due course.
“The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.”
The royal passed away two months and one day short of what would have been his 100th birthday.
His death comes just weeks after he was taken to London’s King Edward VII Hospital on February 16 after feeling unwell.
Two weeks later, he was transferred to St Bart’s Hospital for treatment for an infection and heart condition.
Buckingham Palace then announced on Tuesday, March 16 he had been released from hospital and was in “good spirits” and “comfortable”.
Philip had dedicated his life to the Queen and tragically died just before his 100th birthday in June this year.
And his death comes after a turmoil-filled 12 months for the royals after Meghan Markle and Prince Harry quit the royal family.
Prince Philip has been one of the hardest working royals – since 1952 he attended 22,219 solo engagements and 637 overseas tours in a career marked by his famous gaffes, wit and wisdom.
