Queen Camilla forced to pull out of Royal Variety Performance as infection 'lingers'

Confirming the Queen's absence, a Buckingham Palace spokesman said: "Following a recent chest infection, The Queen continues to experience some lingering post-viral symptoms, as a result of which doctors have advised that, after a busy week of engagements, Her Majesty should prioritise sufficient rest.

"With great regret, she has therefore withdrawn from attendance at tonight’s Royal Variety Performance. His Majesty will attend as planned."

A royal source told GB News: "[She's] naturally disappointed to miss the evening’s entertainments, and sends her sincere apologies to all those involved, but is a great believer that the show must go on.

"She hopes to be back to full strength and regular public duties very soon."

King Charles will attend the event this evening on his own.

Queen Camilla will remain in London this evening before travelling to Sandringham as planned.

The Queen's doctors have advised her to miss the event due to the long evening the Royal Variety performance would have entailed.

Camilla is slowly recovering, but each engagement this week has been decided on a case by case basis.

This week Queen Camilla attended a Buckingham Palace reception and was seen talking to Spice Girl, Geri Horner.

She also paid tribute to British acting legend Dame Maggie Smith in emotional exchange with the actress's son during the engagement.

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Camilla described the Harry Potter star as a "legend" and in a tribute said: "We really loved her."

Dame Maggie, who died on September 27 aged 89, was also known for her roles in Downton Abbey and the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.

The Queen said: "It’s just sad for the whole country, she was a legend."

She also thanked Stephens for his guest appearance at the reception.