London – The Duke of Edinburgh is said to be in good spirits after leaving hospital following a successful heart procedure.
Prince Philip, 99, was admitted to King Edward VII’s hospital in central London on February 16 after feeling unwell.
He later underwent a successful procedure for a pre-existing heart condition at another London hospital – St Bartholomew’s.
The duke returned to Windsor Castle after the 28-night stay, his longest-ever in hospital.
In a statement on Tuesday, Buckingham Palace said the duke was discharged “following treatment for an infection and a successful procedure for a pre-existing condition”.
“His Royal Highness wishes to thank all the medical staff who looked after him . . . and everyone who has sent their good wishes,” the statement said.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson “continues to wish Prince Phillip a speedy recovery”, his spokesman said, adding the PM was “of course” pleased to see the duke return to Windsor.
Prince Philip and the Queen, 94, have spent the most-recent lockdown in England living at the Berkshire residence with a small group of household staff, nicknamed HMS Bubble.
The couple, who have been married for 73 years, received their first COVID-19 jabs in January.
The exact reason for his initial admission was not disclosed, but the Palace said at the time it was not related to coronavirus.
During his stay at King Edward VII’s, the duke was visited by his son the Prince of Wales.
After his admission to King Edward VII hospital, Prince Philip was transferred to Barts for specialist treatment on a pre-existing heart condition, undergoing a successful procedure on March 3.
He was later transferred back to King Edward VII’s hospital.
The hospital is a private clinic in central London which has treated the Queen on several occasions as well as the duke and other senior royals.
Prince Philip left through a side entrance of the hospital in a wheelchair and was helped into the rear passenger seat of a waiting car.
The duke, who retired from royal duties in 2017, has received treatment for other health conditions over the years, including a bladder infection in 2012 and exploratory surgery on his abdomen in June 2013.
Members of the Royal Family continued with their official duties while the duke was in hospital. (BBC)
