Oops, Telegraph! Prince Philip merely bids adieu to British Royal duties

Telegraph gaffe on Prince Philip death hits news online before Duke retired officially today

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Prince Philip sits with the Queen as she delivers her speech in the House of Lords, during the State Opening of Parliament at the Palace of Westminster in London June 4, 2014. Reuters

Prince Philip, 96, the consort of Queen Elizabeth officially retired from his Royal duties on Wednesday after his final public appearance at the Royal Marines parade in Buckingham Palace as Captain General of the naval force but a news headline inadvertently put out by Telegraph declared him "dead aged XX."

While someone would soon pay for the gaffe, the day goes down in history with Prince Philip relinquishing his duties after an unprecedented 22,219 solo engagements since 1952, serving as the patron, president and member of almost 783 organisations.

Though Prince Philip is known for his tongue-twisting gaffes, the Telegraph's release today should make him turn around to say 'What a gaffe?' Otherwise, the Duke had announced in May this year that he would be stepping down from public duties.

The British media is craving for the exclusive coverage of Royal News, especially the health news of both Prince Philip and the Queen who are in their 90s. This is not the first time a newspaper has prematurely published the duke's death.

While the Guardian hit upon a story idea of the secret plan in place for when the Queen eventually dies, called "London Bridge is Down", The Independent has put out a broad plan on what happens when Prince Philip dies.

For those who missed Telegraph leak, here is the text:

"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."

Duke of Edinburgh ends 65 years of service with final solo engagement

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