BBC News' Huw Edwards appears in black tie as royal correspondent says 'we must now prepare for the worst'

Newsreader Huw Edwards is leading the BBC's special news coverage following the news that doctors are concerned for the Queen’s health. And it has been noted that he has been sharing updates on the Queen's health to viewers wearing a black suit and tie.

A change of outfits is BBC protocol for serious royal illnesses and deaths. Last April, BBC newsreader Martine Croxall was seen having to change outfits live on air as news of the Duke of Edinburgh's death broke.

It comes as the BBC cleared its scheduled programming for Thursday afternoon immediately following the announcement from Buckingham Palace that the Queen is under medical supervision. The BBC pulled an episode of Bargain Hunt from air to make way for a news special as concerns for the Queen's health mounted.

READ MORE: Queen Elizabeth under medical supervision with Princes Charles and William called to Balmoral - updates

Buckingham Palace issued a statement at 12.32pm on Thursday with a Palace spokesman saying: “Following further evaluation this morning, the Queen’s doctors are concerned for Her Majesty’s health and have recommended she remain under medical supervision. The Queen remains comfortable and at Balmoral."

As the usual programming on the BBC was pulled, a black screen appeared before a BBC newsreader confirmed: "Welcome to viewers on BBC One. We have had news from Buckingham Palace that the Queen is under medical supervision at Balmoral." Around an hour into the programme, Huw took over presenting duties as one of the most senior newsreaders in the organisation.

While the BBC scrapped all its planned programming, other channels including ITV and Channel 4 remained with regular schedules, Wales Online reports. The BBC kept up news coverage on the