Roger Helmer is new UKIP delegation leader in European Parliament

Roger Helmer, the East Midlands MEP who finished second for UKIP at last Thursday's Newark by-election, has been chosen as the party's Head of Delegation in Europe.

After the vote, Mr Helmer said: "I am delighted to be invited to lead the UK’s largest MEP delegation. We will focus on the vital task of restoring independence, freedom and democracy to our country."

He also told the other 23 UKIP MEPs: "We will remind those in the Brussels bubble that the British people do not agree with what they are doing.

"We can ride shotgun on the legislation that goes through the European Parliament and resist it as best we can."

Mr Helmer finished second to Conservative Robert Jenrick in the Newark by-election, polling 10,028, behind Mr Jenrick's 17,431.

UKIP leader Nigel Farage said: "I wish Roger all the very best in his important task, and I am sure with his experience and abilities he shall do the party and our members proud.

"I shall concentrate my energies as Group President in the European Parliament and as Leader of UKIP in the UK. I look forward to working with Roger as we work for our freedom from political union."