Julia Reid, Sky News Online

Former US President Bill Clinton is in “good spirits” after having a heart procedure in a New York hospital.

His aide Douglas Band said Mr Clinton has undergone a procedure to put two stents in his coronary arteries.

“President Clinton is in good spirits, and will continue to focus on the work of his foundation and Haiti’s relief and long-term recovery efforts,” a statement said.

Mr Clinton has been heading the relief effort in Haiti

Sky’s US political analyst Jon-Christopher Bua said that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had rushed from Washington to be by her husband’s side at New York’s Presbyterian Hospital.

“Hillary was in her weekly meeting with President Obama at the time and is rushing to his side from Washington.

“I think she may well change her plans for the rest of the week.

“His daughter Chelsea is also at her father’s side.”

The White House says President Obama has called President Clinton to wish him a speedy recovery after the heart procedure.

Jon-Christopher Bua said: “After returning from Haiti, Bill Clinton developed a cold and wasn’t feeling too well.

“He went in to see his doctor as an in-patient and they decided to carry out this procedure.

“It is a serious procedure, especially with his medical history, and he will need to be monitored closely.

“The last time I saw him he looked good – fit and lean.”

The former president, who is 63, has recently been heading the US relief effort in Haiti following the devastating earthquake there.

Mr Clinton had a quadruple bypass operation in 2004, but has since made dramatic changes to his lifestyle and enjoyed good health.

During his eight years in office, he was known for his love of burgers and was often seen jogging to keep in shape.