Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump probably thought candid remarks made to a priest in private would remain just that. But Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, proved to be a rather indiscreet confessor.

Within hours of speaking to the two presidential nominees back stage at a charity dinner the archbishop let slip one of the most shocking stories of the campaign - that the bitter rivals had been "nice" to each other, and even said a prayer together.

"There were some very touching moments," Cardinal Dolan said. "When we were going in I said 'Can we pray together?' as we were waiting to be announced.

"After the little prayer Mr Trump turned to Mrs Clinton and said 'You know, you are one tough and talented woman'. Then he said 'This has been a good experience, this whole campaign, as tough as it's been'.

Mrs Clinton responded: "Donald, whatever happens, we need to work together afterwards.""