Paul Nuttall elected as leader of UKIP

Paul Nuttall has been elected leader of the UK Independence Party, replacing Nigel Farage.

Mr Nuttall, a 39-year-old MEP, defeated former deputy chairwoman Suzanne Evans and ex-soldier John Rees-Evans to take the role.

Previously elected Diane James quit the post after just 18 days, prompting Mr Farage to return as interim leader.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Nuttall said: “The country needs a strong UKIP more than ever before.

“For if UKIP is to be an electoral force, there will be an impetus on Theresa May and her government to give us a real Brexit.”

But Mr Nuttall said, under his leadership: “There will be one theme – unity – because only unity breeds success.”

He promised to “put the great back into Britain”.

Mr Nuttall took 9,622 votes. Ms Evans came second with 2,973 votes (19.3%) and Mr Rees-Evans third with 2,775 votes (18.1%).

He said his first act as leader was to appoint MEP Peter Whittle as his deputy.