Ukip’s Douglas Carswell concedes defeat in Stoke Central as it’s claimed leader Paul Nuttall could finish THIRD

UKIP's only MP dramatically conceded the Stoke by-election - saying the party's new leader had lost to Labour.

Douglas Carswell said it was "likely" Labour had held the seat just 45 minutes after the polls closed.

3

It sparked an immediate bout of infighting, with claims he personally blocked a knighthood for Nigel Farage - which he denied.

But it sets the stage for a fresh civil war today if the result is confirmed.

UKIP's leader Paul Nuttall decided to contest the Stoke seat in January, but sources yesterday claimed he may end third after a disastrous campaign.

3

related stories

VOTE COUNT ON 'KNIFE EDGE'

Copeland by-election 'too close to call' as Theresa May bids for historic victory over Labour

STOKE VOTES

Here is all you need to know about the crucial Stoke by-election

THE STOKES ARE HIGH

Ukip's Paul Nuttall votes as polls open in Copeland and Stoke - but Storm Doris could hurt turnout

TRUST YOU?

Theresa May destroys Jeremy Corbyn on the NHS during final PMQs before crunch by-elections tomorrow

3

Mr Carswell stunned the audience at BBC Question Time by saying it would have been an "earthquake" if UKIP had won Stoke - despite it being branded the Brexit capital of England.

And he deepened his feud with Nigel Farage by slamming the party's "shocking" tactics before the 2015 General Election.