The Duke of Edinburgh announced as new Patron of the Southbank Centre

The Southbank Centre has today announced that HRH The Duke of Edinburgh has become its new Patron. The Duke takes on the patronage previously held by his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

The Southbank Centre is the UK’s largest arts centre and was opened by The Duke’s Grandfather, King George VI in 1951, as part of the Festival of Britain. As an engine of creativity, the Southbank Centre exists to invest in the future of arts and culture, foster the next generation of creative talent and bring amazing cultural experiences to the widest audiences in London and across the UK, presenting more than 5,000 events a year, 40 per cent of which are free.

The Southbank Centre, the UK’s 5th most visited attraction, brings millions of people together across its site by the River Thames. It offers a year-round programme of events, workshops and projects designed to engage and inspire children, families, young people and adults of all backgrounds, and build connections with, and through, the arts.

The Duke of Edinburgh takes a keen interest in the arts, and champions the opportunities the industry offers young people to develop their confidence and skills. His Royal Highness formerly worked in theatre and television production, before becoming a full-time working member of the Royal Family in 2002.