Hope was knighted in 1998

Hope is in strong enough spirits to keep up the jokes as when asked what he wanted for dessert for his first lunch at home, he answered: "I don't care... as long as it's coffee ice cream."

The comedian was admitted to Providence St Joseph Medical Center in Burbank after suffering respiratory problems at his home in on 26 August and was diagnosed with pneumonia.

He responded well to antibiotics and intravenous fluids.

It was thought he was to be released several days earlier but doctors kept him in as a matter of caution.

Hope starred with Bing Crosby in 'Road To...' capers

Hope last entered hospital in June 2000 suffering from a bout of gastrointestinal bleeding, but was released a week later with a clean bill of health.

He is perhaps best known as a comedian but he has starred in many films and made a name for himself as an entertainer.

He started out as a major star in vaudeville, the American form of music hall, and developed a name for his quick-fire, often topical, gags.

Hope also had a successful film partnership with Bing Crosby, namely in the "Road To..." caper movies where they vied for the favours of Dorothy Lamour.

Days before his 95th birthday, in May 1998, he was awarded an honorary knighthood by Britain's Queen Elizabeth.

Bob Hope has been married to Dolores since 1934.