Nigel Farage quits as Ukip leader

Nigel Farage has resigned as the leader of the UK Independence Party.

In a speech in London, Farage said he felt he had done his bit and “couldn’t possibly achieve more”.

"I have never been, and I have never wanted to be, a career politician. My aim in being in politics was to get Britain out of the European Union," he said.

The eurosceptic MEP, who stepped down last year only to return to the role within days, joked that he wanted his life back after eight years in the role.

“I won’t be changing my mind again, I assure you,” he said.

Farage said Ukip could be on track to do well in the 2020 election, pointing in particular to the potential to win over Labour supporters.

“Whilst we will now leave the European Union, the terms of our withdrawal are unclear. If there is too much backsliding by the Government and with the Labour Party detached from many of its voters then Ukip’s best days may be yet to come.”

The outspoken politician said a new leader would be in place in time for the autumn conference but did not back a particular candidate.

Farage has been serving in the European Parliament since 1999 and will continue to do so until Britain leaves the European Union.