Prince Philip funeral: ‘Ring of steel’ around Windsor as public urged to stay away

Understated affair: officials have askedthe public not to line the streets of Windsor

(REUTERS)

A ring of steel will be surrounding Windsor Castle for the funeral to ensure “no security threat is missed”, a retired counter-terrorism detective said today.

Armed and mounted police have been patrolling the Long Walk near the historic palace and its nearby town centre.

As part of the multi-million pound security operation, officers with sniffer dogs searched phone boxes, post boxes, drains and bins.

The Department for Transport has banned the use of drones in the area. The public has already been asked not to gather for the funeral. High street cafes have been ordered to limit the number of tables they put out on pavements to discourage well-wishers.

CCTV and automated number plate technology is being used across Berkshire to flag any suspicious vehicles or drivers. Lorries will also be checked.

Huge concrete blocks aimed at preventing terror attacks similar to Westminster and London Bridge have been erected. High Street, Thames Street and Sheet Street will be temporarily closed between 2pm and 3.30pm tomorrow.

Former Detective Chief Inspector Chris Phillips, ex-head of the National Counter Terrorism Security Office, policed both Chares and Diana’s wedding in 1981 and their son William’s to Catherine in 2011. He told the Standard: “The whole operation is design to create a sterile area and then operate the funeral within that.

“None of the officers involved wants to let the side down. That’s the key. So, they will be making sure no security threat is missed. There are lots of police tuned into what needs to happen.”

Scotland Yard’s Protection Command is responsible for the safety of the royals within the grounds of Windsor Castle. Thames Valley Police look after the surrounding areas.

But long-established plans for the duke’s funeral were scaled back because of lockdown allowing just 30 mourners to attend. Mr Phillips said police commanders will privately be relieved the pandemic means no mass crowds or scores of foreign dignitaries.

He added: “It will altogether be a smaller funeral than planned.

“But there are always some people who want to get access to it.”

Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Ben Snuggs, strategic commander for the funeral, said: “We understand that people will want to pay their respects to HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and to the Royal Family during this time of national mourning.

“However, we would ask that the public respect the Royal Household’s wishes and the Government advice by not gathering in groups.”

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