Prince Philip admitted to hospital as a precautionary measure

Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, has been admitted to hospital as a "precautionary measure" after feeling unwell, Buckingham Palace has announced.

The 99-year-old is "expected to remain in hospital for a few days of observation and rest" said a palace spokesperson.

The duke's illness is not believed to be related to COVID-19.

A statement said Prince Philip was admitted to King Edward VII hospital in London on Tuesday evening, adding, "The duke's admission is a precautionary measure, on the advice of His Royal Highness's doctor, after feeling unwell".

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office said he "sends his best wishes to the Duke of Edinburgh as he undergoes a few days of rest in hospital".

It is reported that Philip travelled to the hospital by car and it was not an emergency admission. He is said to be in good spirits.

The duke retired from public duties in 2017 and has rarely been seen since. His most recent public appearance was at a military ceremony at Buckingham Palace in July.

He has been with the Queen at Windsor Castle since coronavirus restrictions were first introduced last year. The royal couple received their vaccines in January

The duke will celebrate his 100th birthday on June 10.