Nelson Mandela 'Seriously ill' In Hospital

Former South African President Nelson Mandela has been readmitted to hospital with the recurrence of a lung infection.

The 94-year-old's health deteriorated at about 1.30am local time and he was taken to a hospital in Pretoria, where he is said to be in a "serious, but stable condition".

Government spokesman Mac Maharaj told South Africa's Enca Television that Mr Mandela's condition was "serious this time".

"The situation is serious this time, but doctors have assured us he is comfortable," he said.

It is the second time in recent months Mr Mandela, a revered figure across the globe, has been in hospital - and the fourth health scare in six months for the anti-apartheid leader.

The last time was in May/April earlier this year when he was kept in hospital for 10 days to receive treatment for pneumonia.

Mr Maharaj told Sky News: "Some members of his family have been there with him all the time.

"It is a condition he has had over a long period of time ... and we hope this time it will also be treated successfully."