Prince Philip was waiting to have his picture taken with other members of the royal family and a group of Battle of Britain pilots - famously dubbed the "few" by wartime prime minister Winston Churchill.

Apparently keen to get on with the lunch event hosted by the RAF Club in central London, the Duke,94, was heard repeatedly telling a photographer "just take it," before adding: "Just take the f****** picture!"

His colourful language was met with laughter by members of the party, which included veterans Flying Officer Ken Wilkinson, Squadron Leader Tony Pickering and Wing Commander Paul Farnes.

The facial expression of Prince William - who has seen his grandfather make several public "gaffes" over the years - seemed to tell its own story.

The event was held after Philip had joined the Queen and other senior royals on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch a flypast that included four Spitfires and two Hurricanes, the iconic aircraft from the battle.