Private funeral for Dutch Prince Friso

(AP) Members of the Dutch royal family and a small collection of friends are attending a private funeral for Prince Friso, who died this week due to complications from a 2012 skiing accident.

Friso, the younger brother of King Willem-Alexander, suffered severe brain damage and never regained more than minimal consciousness. He died on Monday, aged 44. Flags are flying at half-staff on official buildings around the country, and thousands of Dutch people have sent messages of condolences via social media.

Friso is survived by his wife, Princess Mabel, and two young daughters.

Because Friso gave up his place in the line of succession in 2004, Friday's funeral is not a state affair. It is taking place in Lage Vuursche, a small town on the outskirts of Utrecht.