DUP and UUP face electoral battle in Fermanagh

An electoral battle between is looming between the North's two main unionist parties following a UUP refusal to allow a DUP co-option in Co Fermanagh.

The Ulster Unionists say voters should be allowed to have their say on the matter at the ballot box.

The contest is likely to give an insight into where the local unionist community stands on the DUP's agreement to share power with Sinn Féin.

The last by-election is widely believed to have contributed to Ian Paisley's resignation after the relative good showing of Traditional Unionist Voice, which vehemently opposes power-sharing.

The DUP says the UUP decision could split the unionist vote and result in Sinn Feéin winning a seat.