According to The Guardian, The Daily Telegraph published an incomplete article online on Wednesday announcing the death of the Duke of Edinburgh as the still-alive prince prepared for his final day of public engagements.
The full-length report, since taken down, appeared on the newspaper’s website before Prince Philip, 96, the longest-serving consort in British history, was due to carry out his 22,219th – and final – solo engagement.
The piece read: “The Duke of Edinburgh, the longest-serving consort to a monarch in British history, has died at the age of XX, Buckingham Palace has announced.
“Prince Philip, whom the Queen described as her ‘strength and stay’ during her record-breaking reign, passed away XXXXXXX
“FILL IN DETAILS”
“He will be given a royal ceremonial funeral in line with his wishes, which is expected to take place in seven days’ time.”
A note at the top of the article read: “This file needs to be a living file – and will serve Apple News as well as be the main news story. Please stick to the format below.”
A spokesman for the Telegraph said: “We sincerely apologise for the mistake that was made this morning, which was of course rectified immediately. We will be reviewing our publishing processes as a matter of urgency.”
it is not the first time a newspaper has prematurely announced Prince Philip’s death. The Sun made a similar error in May when the duke announced his retirement from public engagements. The tabloid published an article, which again was swiftly removed, titled: “Prince Philip dead at 95, how did the Duke of Edinburgh die, etc etc”.
During his final engagement Prince Philip will pay tribute to personnel who took part in the 1664 Global Challenge, a series of strength and endurance feats raising funds for and awareness of the Royal Marines charity.
Buckingham Palace staff have calculated he has undertaken 637 solo overseas trips to 143 countries, delivered 5,496 speeches and found time to write 14 books and carry out the role of patron for 785 organisations during his royal career.
The Queen, 91, will continue her public schedule, supported by other members of the royal family.
The incomplete article, since taken down, briefly appeared on website on the day Prince Philip was due to carry out final solo engagement.
Culled from The Guardian
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