Ukip to examine leader Henry Bolton's private life following split with wife

Ukip leader Henry Bolton is facing an investigation into his controversial private life before senior officials decide his future in the party's top job, members have been told.

Mr Bolton, 54, has left wife Tatiana, 42, who gave birth to their second daughter at London's St Pancras Station in 2016 after going into labour on a train, and is now in a relationship with Ukip supporter Jo Marney, 25.

The party leader has insisted the relationship did not begin until after his separation but the revelations have sparked a backlash among some Ukip activists.

In a letter to members, Ukip chairman Paul Oakden said the NEC ruling body had agreed to discuss the issue at a special meeting in 10 days.

He wrote: "Both the committee and the Leader understand the strength of feeling on this coverage and are keen to work collectively in finding a resolution that best protects the future prospects of Ukip.

"Due to the short time between the publishing of these reports and our meeting today, the committee agreed that it was not in a position to full discuss all the evidence and appropriately agree on a way forward.

"Further investigation of these matters is required."

Mr Bolton was elected Ukip leader last September.

Bookmaker Coral slashed the odds of Nigel Farage returning as leader to just 3-1.

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