THE Duke of Edinburgh has been admitted to hospital in London for a planned hip operation.

Prince Philip, 96, was admitted to the King Edward VII Hospital in Marylebone ahead of the surgery ,which is due to take place on Wednesday.

The Duke, who retired from royal duties last August, was absent from the Royal Maundy Service at leicester Cathedral on Thursday.

In a statement, Buckingham Palace said: "His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh was admitted to King Edward VII Hospital in London this afternoon, for planned surgery on his hip which will take place tomorrow.

"Further updates will be issued when appropriate."