Recuperating Duke in 'good spirits'

The Duke of Edinburgh has been treated at Papworth hospital in Cambridge after suffering chest pains

The Duke of Edinburgh is expected to wake up in hospital on Christmas morning, where he is recuperating following treatment for a blocked coronary artery.

Philip, 90, was said to be in "good spirits" on Christmas Eve as he was visited by members of the royal family, including the Queen and the Prince of Wales. The Earl of Wessex, the Princess Royal, the Duke of York and the Duchess of Cornwall also visited the Duke's bedside at Papworth hospital in Cambridge.

Earlier, Buckingham Palace said Philip had a "good night" following the coronary stent procedure on Friday evening and is "eager to leave". He is expected to remain under observation for a short period but no further details have been given about when he will be discharged.

The Queen was flown to Papworth from Sandringham, her private Norfolk estate, where the royal family is spending Christmas. The royal helicopter touched down near the hospital and the visitors were driven in a convoy of two Range Rovers and a third car.

The royal party returned to the helicopter after the 45-minute visit and was flown away shortly before midday, although the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall travelled separately.

It is thought to be the first time the Duke will miss the Christmas morning service at Sandringham, which has become an annual tradition for the royal family since the early 1990s. Prior to this they often spent Christmas at Windsor Castle, but this was brought to an end following the fire in November 1992.

Buckingham Palace has said the service will go ahead as planned and no changes to the royal family's Christmas Day celebrations are expected.

Philip was taken to the specialist heart hospital after complaining of chest pains, and, following tests, a blocked artery was discovered by doctors. He underwent an "invasive procedure of coronary stenting", which was declared a success.

This is the most serious health scare suffered by the Duke, who is known for being a robust and active 90-year-old.

Although it is not known how long he will be in hospital, medical experts have said that many patients can be discharged a day after undergoing the procedure, providing there are no complications. - pa.press.net