Ian Paisley’s family are at his bedside in a Belfast hospital after the politician and preacher suffered a suspected heart attack.

Paisley is in intensive care at the Ulster Hospital in Dundonald after suffering ‘acute heart problems’.

Wife Eileen, son Ian Junior MP, and daughter Rhonda are by the 85-year-old’s side after his health scare.

The former Northern Ireland First Minister and DUP founder was admitted to hospital near Belfast on Sunday.

His latest scare comes a year after Paisley was fitted with a pacemaker.

-----------------

Read more:

More news from Ireland on IrishCentral

Bill Clinton to host New York round-table forum on Irish economy this week

Buy yourself a two-bedroom cottage in rural Leitrim for under $10,000

-----------------

A statement issued on behalf of his wife Eileen said: “She requests that the family's privacy be respected at this difficult time.

“No further statement or information will be issued at this time.”

Just 10 days ago, Paisley preached his final sermon as a minister.

He is a former moderator and founding member of the Free Presbyterian Church and was MP for North Antrim for almost 40 years.

Members of the DUP parliamentary party said prayers for Paisley at their weekly meeting in Stormont.

“We were just told he was unwell and in hospital. That was all,” said one party member.

It is believed Paisley was starting to write his autobiography after his retirement from the Church.