Huw Edwards to lead BBC's coverage of Prince Philip's funeral

Huw Edwards is to lead the BBC’s coverage of Prince Philip’s funeral.

Plans for programming around the funeral on Saturday (17 April) were announced as it was confirmed that the broadcaster's blanket coverage of the Prince’s death drew almost 110,000 complaints.

The royal died on 9 April at the age of 99 and his funeral is due to take place at Windsor Castle on Saturday.

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Read more: Britain mourns Prince Philip after his death aged 99

On Friday (16 April), Edwards will present a special programme on BBC One called HRH The Duke Of Edinburgh Remembered.

The programme, which will also feature JJ Chalmers as a reporter, introduces live coverage from Windsor Castle and viewers will hear from the people who are playing key roles in the ceremonial procession and funeral service.

Saturday's coverage will begin at 11am on BBC One with a programme called The Duke: In His Own Words, and from 12.30pm Edwards will lead coverage of the funeral.

He will be joined by Chalmers and Sophie Raworth, as well as special guests and royal experts sharing their thoughts.

The programme is due to end at 4.20pm and later that evening Edwards, Raworth and Chalmers will be back with a BBC Two programme reflecting on the day’s events.

ITV confirmed earlier this week that it would broadcast Prince Philip – A Royal Funeral from 1.15pm on Saturday. Coverage will be hosted by Tom Bradby and Julie Etchingham.

The funeral will have just 30 mourners, as the day's events will adhere to current COVID guidelines.

Read more: Piers Morgan leads tributes to 'truly great Briton' Prince Philip

It's a much smaller ceremony than had been in the plans, known as Operation Forth Bridge, throughout the Prince’s life.

Watch: Prince Philip death: The Duke of Edinburgh dies, aged 99