King Bhumibol Makes Appearance

3 weeks ago 03rd Nov 14:00

Thailand's King Bhumibol has appeared in public for the second time since he was hospitalised six weeks ago.

The 81-year-old monarch waved to the public as he was pushed in his wheelchair by staff at Bangkok's Siriraj Hospital yesterday (02.11.09), where the king has been treated for an undisclosed illness since September 19.

Wearing a white shirt and black trousers, Bhumibol - looking weak but alert - was wheeled to a nearby pier overlooking the Chao Phraya River.

There, he briefly celebrated the Loy Krathong holiday - when Thais set afloat lotus-shaped trays containing flowers, candles and incense with prayers asking for their misfortunes to drift away and be replaced by good luck.

He was handed his own float which he passed to an aide to float down the river.

He then returned to the clinic with his family and aides by his side.

The much-loved royal's short appearance was witnessed by a crowd of fans who shouted "Long live the King!".

It is believed he will be discharged from hospital soon.