AN RAF search-and-rescue helicopter which attempted to take an ill Duke of Edinburgh to hospital was thwarted by "dreadful" weather, it has emerged.
The 91-year-old was due to spend a third night at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary after suffering a recurrence of a bladder infection while staying at the Queen's private residence, Balmoral.
But an RAF Lossiemouth Sea King was foiled four times in attempts to land after being alerted to his illness on Wednesday, with a source admitting: "The weather was absolutely dreadful." The Duke was later taken by ambulance the 50 miles to Aberdeen.
Doctors have advised the royal, who is responding well, to rest and not receive visitors. He is expected to remain in hospital for the next few days.
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