THE Queen is being assessed after being struck by a severe stomach bug that has forced her to cancel a planned visit to Wales.

The 86-year-old monarch was due to attend a military celebration in Swansea today as part of St David's Day celebrations, but was forced to pull out as she is suffering from symptoms associated with gastroenteritis.

The Queen had been due to present leeks to 3 Royal Welsh, the reserve force of the regiment, for the first time. The ceremonial presentation of leeks is a tradition that dates back to at least 1916.

Today's ceremonies, including a parade to Swansea's Guildhall, will go ahead in her absence.