Attenborough Stable In Hospital

The 85-year-old Oscar winner fell and suffered a knock to the head last week (beg15Dec08). He fell into a coma and was admitted to St George's Hospital in Tooting, West London, where he is now said to be in a stable condition having regained consciousness.

Attenborough's niece, Susan, confirmed her uncle remains under the watch of medics but is hopeful he will be home before Christmas.

She says, "My uncle is still in hospital but doctors say there's no cause for concern. He had a fall and banged his head. He's not 30 anymore. He's 85 and falls hurt, you know. He's doing well. We don't know when he will be released or whether he will be home in time for Christmas, but we all hope so."

Attenborough was due to unveil an English Heritage blue plaque on Thursday (18Dec08) in Surrey, England, where he was born. He was forced to cancel the engagement after being taken ill. British actor Tom Courtenay took his place at the event.