Prince Philip leaves hospital after hip operation

PRINCE Philip is said to be in good spirits as he was released from hospital eight days after undergoing a hip transplant.

PRINCE Philip has been released from hospital eight days after undergoing a hip transplant.

The 96-year-old husband of Queen Elizabeth was discharged a short time ago from King Edward VII’s Hospital in London.

He underwent the transplant after ongoing problems with his hip that saw him cancel three scheduled public appearances in 10 days over the Easter period.

Buckingham Palace confirmed Prince Philip had been discharged and said he would continue his recovery at Windsor, the castle west of London used by the royal couple as a private residence.

Britain's Prince Philip waves as he leaves the King Edward VII Hospital. Picture: APh

“His Royal Highness would like to convey his appreciation for the messages of good wishes he has received,’’ a palace spokeswoman said.

The royal family has a busy time ahead hosting leaders from around the Commonwealth as part of the week-long Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, which is being held in London from Monday.

Prince Philip retired from public life in August last year and so had been unlikely to play a high-profile role in the events.

While in hospital, his daughter, Princess Anne visited him. She spent 50 minutes with her father after the surgery.

Britain's Princess Anne leaves the King Edward VII Hospital in London. Picture: AP