Francis pictured for first time since he was admitted to hospital more than a month ago with pneumonia

The Vatican has released the first photograph of Pope Francis since the 88-year-old was admitted to hospital more than a month ago with pneumonia in both lungs.

The photo shows the pope, bare-headed, seated in a wheelchair and wearing a white robe and purple stole – typical of Lenten liturgical vestments – in front of a simple altar with a crucifix on the wall.