North's First Minister Peter Robinson has officially stepped down

The North's First Minister Peter Robinson has confirmed he is standing down from the position, and as DUP leader.

Mr Robinson told the DUP conference he was bowing out in the knowledge that Northern Ireland is "on safe ground".

It is expected either Nigel Dodds or Arlene Foster will take over.

Peter Robinson said it was time for the next generation to take over leadership of the party.

"Whenever the party chooses that leader and whoever it might be, I will give them my wholehearted and unqualified support."