[imagesource: GLYN KIRK/AFP/Getty Images]

Prince William and Prince Harry have paid tribute to their beloved grandfather, Prince Philip, who recently passed away at the age of 99.

Shortly after the speech by Prince Charles, both grandsons released statements separately, remembering their grandfather Philip in their own individual ways.

Royal correspondent Jonny Dymond makes an interesting observation in a BBC article about each of their statements.

Harry’s move to California after giving up his royal status may be why his statement sounds a bit more lighthearted, calling his grandfather a “legend of banter”.

William, on the other hand, who is sticking to his royal duties, kept it more formal and speaks of losing his grandfather as a guide.

Via NBC News, here’s some of what Harry said about his grandfather:

“He was authentically himself, with a seriously sharp wit, and could hold the attention of any room due to his charm – and also because you never knew what he might say next.

“He will be remembered as the longest reigning consort to the monarch, a decorated serviceman, a prince and a duke.

“But to me, like many of you who have lost a loved one or grandparent over the pain of this past year, he was my grandpa: master of the barbecue, legend of banter, and cheeky right ’til the end.”

“Meghan, Archie, and I (as well as your future great-granddaughter) will always hold a special place for you in our hearts,” added Harry.

Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, had been known to make some controversial statements, many of which can be described as racist rather than “cheeky” or “banter”.

Here’s some of what William said in his statement:

“My grandfather’s century of life was defined by service – to his country and Commonwealth, to his wife and Queen, and to our family,” Prince William said.

“I feel lucky to have not just had his example to guide me, but his enduring presence well into my own adult life – both through good times and the hardest days.

He also mentioned how grateful he was that his wife, Catherine (or Kate as she is widely known), and children had the opportunity to spend some time with Prince Philip, who was always kind and gracious.

“I will never take for granted the special memories my children will always have of their great-grandpa coming to collect them in his carriage and seeing for themselves his infectious sense of adventure as well as his mischievous sense of humour!”

The ceremonial royal funeral will be held at St George’s Chapel, on the grounds of Windsor Castle, at 3PM UK time (or 4PM here in South Africa) on April 17 (this Saturday).

After which, duty calls:

“I will miss my Grandpa, but I know he would want us to get on with the job,” says Prince William.

He added that he and his wife would “continue to do what he would have wanted and will support the Queen in the years ahead”.

All eyes will be on Prince Harry after the royal rift caused by the now-infamous Oprah interview.

Although Meghan won’t be able to make it to the funeral due to her pregnancy, perhaps the ceremony will provide a good opportunity for the two brothers to make up.

[source:bbc&nbcnews]