Queen Camilla to miss Royal Variety due to 'lingering' symptoms after recent chest infection

In a statement, the palace said Queen Camilla "continues to experience some lingering post-viral symptoms" and that she had received advice from doctors to rest.

It is the latest high-profile event Camilla has missed due to illness, having also had to miss Remembrance events.

She did not attend the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall, nor the Remembrance Day service at the Cenotaph, instead marking the occasion "privately at home".

Last week, the Queen returned to public duties for the first time since her illness, attending a Booker Prize reception at Clarence House.

While there, the 77-year-old spoke with the shortlisted authors and told author Percival Everett: "I think I'm on the mend, but these things always take a bit of time to get rid of.

"You think you've got rid of it, then they just sort of hang on for a little bit, but hopefully I'm on the mend now," she added.

The Royal Variety Performance, which takes place every year, will this year be hosted by comedian Alan Carr and actress Amanda Holden.

The line-up includes Britain's Got Talent winner Sydnie Christmas and Eurovision winner Nemo.

Other performers include singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor and magician Stephen Mulhern.

A palace spokesperson 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"With great regret, she has therefore withdrawn from attendance at tonight's Royal Variety Performance.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."

-SKY NEWS