Prince Philip is stepping down from royal duties this autumn, Buckingham Palace has announced.

The Duke of Edinburgh, 95, will carry out previously arranged engagements, but will not accept any further duties after this time.

The Palace said in a statement it was the Duke’s decision, taken with the support of the Queen.

He was pictured leaving the palace with red, watery eyes after making the surprise announcement today.

The Duke of Edinburgh is Patron, President or a member of over 780 organisations, with which he will continue to be associated.

(Image: EPA)

The announcement was made after a "highly unusual" emergency meeting was called at Buckingham Palace today.

The entire royal household staff was asked to come to the Queen's London resident at the last minute, sparking fears for Her Majesty and Prince Philip.

(Image: AFP)

Prince Philip was last seen out on public duty yesterday when he opened the new £25million Warner Stand at Lord’s Cricket Ground.