VIDEO-Ukip leadership favourite Steven Woolfe in 'serious' condition after 'altercation' - ITV News

Ukip leadership favourite Steven Woolfe is in a "serious" condition in hospital following an "altercation" at a meeting of Ukip MEPs in Strasbourg, Nigel Farage said.

The MEP for the North West was taken ill after walking out on a vote at the European Parliament.

In a statement, Mr Farage said he "deeply regretted" the incident, which happened on Mr Woolfe's 49th birthday.

Earlier a Ukip spokesman said: "Steven Woolfe MEP was taken suddenly ill in the European Parliament building in Strasbourg this morning.

"He has been taken to hospital in the city and he is undergoing tests."

Suzanne Evans, Ukip's former deputy chair who is said to be considering her own leadership bid, tweeted:

It comes a day after Mr Woolfe put himself forward as a contender to be the next Ukip leader following the shock resignation of Diane James.

He was barred from standing in the last leadership contest after submitting his nomination papers 17 minutes late.

His announcement came as Nigel Farage confirmed he would be carrying on as interim leader until a permanent successor was in place.

Last updated Thu 6 Oct 2016