Portsmouth royalists 'hopeful' that Duke of Edinburgh will pull through following hospital admission

The Duke, 99, was admitted to hospital yesterday after feeling unwell, Buckingham Palace confirmed.

While done as a precautionary measure, it is understood that Prince Philip does not have a coronavirus-related illness and walked into hospital unaided.

Royalists in Portsmouth have given their support to Prince Philip, who has suffered with a number of ailments over the years.

Phoebe Carlile from Cosham has been completing her Duke of Edinburgh award, and says the prince’s initiative has provided plenty of life opportunities for her.

The 17-year-old, currently completing her gold award, said: ‘I saw that he was in hospital but not much more than that.

‘It’s a bit of a shock to be honest – I’ve been on Zoom calls with Duke of Edinburgh members to plan his 100th birthday celebrations, so I really hope he pulls through.

‘With him turning 100 there are a lot of things planned. I've done so many amazing things through the award scheme, so have a lot to thank him for.’

Conservative leader in Portsmouth, Cllr Donna Jones, added: ‘I’m sad to hear that HRH The Duke of Edinburgh has been admitted to hospital.

‘Wishing him a speedy recovery and sending my thoughts to the royal family.’

A palace spokesperson said: ‘His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh was admitted to the King Edward VII Hospital in London, on Tuesday evening.

‘The Duke’s admission is a precautionary measure, on the advice of His Royal Highness’s Doctor, after feeling unwell.

‘The Duke is expected to remain in hospital for a few days of observation and rest.’

The Duke later pulled out of a Battle of Jutland anniversary event in June 2016 citing a minor ailment, which was followed soon after by his retirement from public duty in 2017.

Prince Philip also spent four nights at King Edward Hospital in December 2019, where he was treated for a ‘pre-existing condition’.

He was later discharged on Christmas Eve and was driven to Sandringham to spend Christmas with the Queen.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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