Robinson endorsed as DUP leader

The executive of the DUP has unanimously endorsed Peter Robinson to succeed Rev Ian Paisley as leader.

The decision was taken when a large number of the 120 member executive met at the offices of Castlereagh Borough Council on the outskirts on Belfast.

Peter Robinson, 59, has been DUP deputy leader since 1980 and he is due to take over as first minister of the Northern Ireland executive and DUP leader by early June. Nigel Dodds will become deputy leader.

Earlier in the week the DUP's 36 members gave their backing to the Robinson/Dodds team.