Ukip anger over new rules to replace Nigel Farage

Nigel Farage announced his decision to step down after the EU referendum Credit: PA

A row has broken out among Ukip members after its executive committee ruled some of the party's best-know figures can not stand for leadership.

Ukip is looking for a new figurehead after Nigel Farage announced his intention to step down following the EU referendum.

But the Eurosceptic party's ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) has now announced that candidates to replace Mr Farage must have been a member for at least five years.

Under such rules, Ukip's only MP, Douglas Carswell, ex-MP Mark Reckless and prominent former spokeswoman Suzanne Evans, temporarily suspended from the party, will not be able to enter the contest.

On Monday, Ukip MEP Jonathan Arnott announced his intention to run.

Douglas Carswell (left) will not be able to contest under the new rule Credit: PA

Ms Evans described the new rule as "ridiculous", accusing the NEC of "changing the rules as it goes along".

Suzanne Evans described the decision as 'ridiculous' Credit: PA

North-East MEP Mr Arnott, 35, said he wanted to appeal to the millions of voters who did not support Ukip in the general election but backed Brexit in last month's referendum.

He warned that the elevation of Theresa May to the premiership meant that "negotiations for the UK's withdrawal from the EU will be in the hands of those who do not actually want us to leave".

During August, regional hustings will be held before the count and declarations are held on 15th September.