Queen Elizabeth made everyone wear

“Knowing that he had grown a beard on his travels, the Queen had arranged for everyone in the royal entourage – herself included – to put on fake whiskers just before the Duke walked in.”

Philip appeared with whiskers on more than occasion in the 40s and 50s but has been hair-free since.

His grandson, Prince Harry, 36, has sported a beard in recent years, with many drawing a comparison between the two male royals.

The Commonwealth visit saw Prince Philip spending Christmas away from his loved ones.