Trimble to explain UUP resignation decision

Outgoing Ulster Unionist Party leader David Trimble is expected to explain his decision to resign in Belfast today.

Mr Trimble announced his plan to step down after a disastrous result for the UUP in last week's Westminster election.

The party's ruling council is expected to meet within a month to choose a successor, but there is no obvious candidate aside from Lady Sylvia Hermon, who is now the UUP's only MP.

Other possibilities may David Burnside, Reg Empey, Michael McGimpsey and Lord Kilclooney, formerly known as John Taylor.