Prince Philip abruptly cancels pre-Easter service with the Queen due to hip issue

Prince Philip has been unable to join the royal family at an annual service due to a problem with his hip.

The 96-year-old had been scheduled to attend the pre-Easter event held at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle overnight -- the same venue where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will hold their upcoming May 19 wedding.

The service is an important royal event during which the Queen distributes Maundy money each year to senior citizens in recognition of their work.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman says: "The Order of Service was printed some weeks ago when it was hoped the Duke would be able to take part. HRH has since decided not to attend."

The royal's name was printed on the program so it's believe his cancellation was last-minute.

A royal spokesperson previously told ABC it was "hoped" the duke would attend.

"The order of service was printed some weeks ago when it was hoped the duke would be able to take part. His royal highness has since decided not to attend."

Read more: Fresh concerns for Prince Philip's health

Prince Philip retired from royal duties last August. 

While his current health problem isn't believed to be serious, the royal's health has been of concern for some time.

Philip also withdrew from a planned appearance at Windsor Castle last week. He was expected to attend the event with his son, Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, to mark Andrew's role as colonel of the Grenadier Guards, which he is taking over from Philip.

It is not known if he will join the royal family for the Easter service at Windsor Castle on Sunday.

It is hoped the Prince will be well enough to attend the royal wedding on May 19.