Prince Philip was a passionate supporter of the youth sector. Throughout his long life, his charity visits and patronages, the Duke of Edinburgh Award helped to amplify to the public the importance of having positive activities available for young people.
The Duke visited Knights Youth Centre twice – in 1963 and 2002. During both visits, he praised the organisation, the staff, and its volunteers for their dedication to serving the local community and making sure that local young people had the opportunities they needed to thrive.
Whilst visiting Knights he signed the Visitors Book and engaged with every single young attendee who he met. Far more interested in young people than the adults, he listened to their thoughts and views on youth work, the challenges they were facing, and their aspirations for the future.
Chris Saunders (former Chair of Knights Youth Centre) said: “I remember Prince Philip visiting the Centre so well. Due to security reasons his visit in 2002 was a ‘whirlwind’, and we had to prepare very quickly for his arrival. Of course, it was all worth it. The Duke of Edinburgh was kind and gracious and made everyone at the Club feel important and special. To me he is the grandfather of youth work’’.
Many will miss him, and may he rest in peace.