UUP Mike Nesbitt has quit as UUP leader

MIKE Nesbitt has dramatically quit this evening as UUP leader.

He made his announcement at a press conference in east Belfast.

The former television broadcaster said he had informed party chairman of his decision.

“I will not be allowing my name to go forward for re-.

“My only regret is that the vote shows that this society is more polarised.”

He then left the stage and hugged his wife Lynda and son PJ.

Upper Bann UUP MLA Doug Beattie is now strong favourite to take over as leader in April.