Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh was rushed to Papworth Hospital on Friday where he underwent an emergency heart procedure to open a blocked coronary artery.
Buckingham Palace said in a statement last night: “His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh was taken to Papworth Cardiothoracic Centre this evening from Sandringham House for precautionary tests after experiencing chest pain.”
“Following tests at Papworth the Duke of Edinburgh was found to have a blocked coronary artery which had caused his chest pain. This was treated successfully by the minimally invasive procedure of coronary stenting. Prince Phillip will remain in hospital for observation for a short period.”
The Duke, 90, and Queen Elizabeth were in residence at their estate in Norfolk as family gathered for a round of holiday celebrations when he fell ill. He was transported 60 miles to the medical facility in a Sea King helicopter from RAF Wattisham.
The family was kept updated throughout the evening and opted to remain in residence until the following day. Arriving by helicopter on Christmas Eve morning to pay a visit to the stricken Royal were the Queen, Prince Edward, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
The Queen and her holiday guests traditionally exchange gifts on Christmas Eve and attend church services as a family on Christmas morning. This is the first year that Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge has been invited to take part in the festivities. Kate Middleton wed Prince William in April 2011.
Check out a recent photo of Queen Elizabeth, 85, and her Prince below. They have been married 64 years:
Photos: WENN