King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand died on Thursday, prompting deep mourning in a country which viewed the world’s longest serving monarch as a figure of unity.

The health of the 88-year-old, who came to the throne 70 years ago, had been ailing for years but he had been seriously ill at a Bangkok hospital for about a week.

"His Majesty has passed away at Siriraj Hospital peacefully," the Royal Household Bureau said, adding he died at 15:52 (9:52 BST).