ladbible logo

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Prince Philip Has Left Hospital And Returned Home

Prince Philip Has Left Hospital And Returned Home

He was admitted yesterday, meaning he missed the Queen’s Speech.

Claire Reid

Claire Reid

Prince Philip is back at home after a short stay in hospital.

The elderly royal, who celebrated his 96th birthday earlier this month, had been suffering from an infection and was admitted to the King Edward VII's Hospital as a 'precautionary measure' on Tuesday night.

As a result of his short illness, the Prince missed the State Opening of Parliament and the Queen's Speech. Prince Charles filled in alongside his mother for the event on Wednesday.

Prince Charles accompanied his mother yesterday. Credit: PA

He also missed the Royal Ascot horse racing event, which was attended by the Queen and members of the Royal Family.

The Prince was in King Edwards VII's on the advice of his doctors and was thought to have been suffering complication from a long-standing condition. He announced earlier this year that he would retire from public duties and royal engagements in the autumn as a result of his ongoing health issues.

This particular hospital visit is believed to be linked to a long string of bladder problems that the Prince has endured over the last few years. He was taken to hospital with similar complaints in 2012 on two separate occasions.

He was out and about earlier this week. Credit: PA

His doctor was called on Tuesday evening to Windsor Castle and subsequently Philip was taken to the central London hospital on a precautionary basis.

The Palace released a statement yesterday morning on behalf of the Duke of Edinburgh, stating: "Prince Philip is in good spirits and is disappointed to be missing the State Opening of Parliament and Royal Ascot.

"The Prince of Wales will accompany the Queen to the State Opening. Her Majesty is being kept informed and will attend Royal Ascot as planned this afternoon."

Credit: PA

The Duke of Edinburgh has suffered several health problems in recent years, most notably missing the traditional Christmas church service in 2011 because of a blocked artery that resulting in him having a stent put into it.

He drastically reduced his public engagements after that operation and reduced them further following his two bladder infections in 2012. It is thought that these heath issues, as well as his advancing age were the reasons behind the Prince's upcoming retirement.

Despite his rollback of royal engagements, the Duke of Edinburgh remains active as the patron of hundreds of charities. He is still involved with his eponymous Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

Sources: Daily Mail; Evening Standard

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: The Queen, Royal Family