Queen Sonja of Norway, 87, was admitted to hospital on Easter Monday after suffering "breathing difficulties", the royal palace has announced. She was flown to the National Hospital in Oslo last night by a medical helicopter after experiencing shortness of breath. She was staying at the royal chalet in Sikkilsalen, where the royal couple were spending the Easter weekend.

The palace said on Tuesday morning that she has now been discharged from hospital. This latest hospitalisaton comes after Queen Sonja had a pacemaker installed in January after experiencing cardiac fibrillation, a rapid and irregular heartbeat. The procedure earlier this year was reportedly successful.

Queen Sonja, who is married to Norway's head of state King Harald - Europe's oldest reigning monarch at 87, will not return to royal duties this week.

The Royal House said on Monday: "Her Majesty the Queen was admitted to the National Hospital this evening for examinations due to shortness of breath.

"The Queen was transported by air ambulance from the Prince's Cabin in Sikkilsdalen, where the Royal Couple spent the Easter holiday."

The hospitalisation comes after Sonja appeared to be in good health earlier this month as the royals welcomed the President of Iceland, Halla Tómasdóttir, and her husband Björn Skúlason for a state visit.

Queen Sonja participated in the welcome ceremony at the Palace Square. She also attended a gala dinner at the Royal Palace in honour of the visit.

The Royal Palace have not yet provided any more updates.