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."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here