President of Ireland Michael D Higgins 'in excellent spirits' but will ...

President of Ireland Michael D Higgins is "in excellent spirits" but will remain in hospital overnight after he reported feeling unwell.

The 82-year-old was taken for tests in Dublin after being assessed by a doctor at his official residence in the capital.

No immediate concerns were identified but he was taken to hospital as a precaution on Thursday.

His official residence said the initial results "have been positive".

"The president, who will remain in hospital overnight, is in excellent spirits and has thanked the medical staff for the care he has received," his official residence said in a statement.

Last night Mr Higgins presented the 2024 Volta Lifetime Achievement Award to film director Steve McQueen at the Dublin International Film Festival.

He was first elected president in 2011 and was re-elected in 2018.

The Irish president, while head of state, has limited constitutional powers and is seen as a mostly ceremonial role.