Panic at the palace QUEEN'S MEDICAL ALERT

A hospital stay and the sudden cancellation of a trip spark fears Her Majesty is royally exhausted

- Judy Kean

The Queen is in remarkable good health considering she’s 95. But following a recent series of incidents, including a night spent in hospital, there are fears that her age is starting to catch up with her and she may be unwell.

The first cause for concern came when she was seen using a walking stick as she arrived at Westminster Abbey for a commemorative service three weeks ago.

It was the first time the monarch had been spotted in public with a walking aid since she used one on a couple of occasions in 2003 and 2004 after knee surgery. She used it again a few days later as she arrived at the Welsh parliament in Cardiff, sparking speculation there are issues with her mobility.

“But we have to remember that she is 95,” says royal editor Russell Myers. “She may just be using it for comfort, but don’t be surprised if we see it a lot more in future.”

Then came the news that Her Majesty was cutting down on alcohol. A royal source confirmed that she is swapping her favourite gin cocktails for tomato juice or sparkling water ahead of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations next year. “It’s a sensible decision,” says Ingrid Seward, editor-in-chief of Majesty Magazine, adding that the Queen is not a heavy drinker but enjoys a tipple most days.