The West Midlands politician's personal life hit the headlines after a picture of his prescribed Viagra tablets was posted online by his former partner.

Mr Etheridge, who is bidding to replace Nigel Farage as party leader, said the posts had led to "ridiculing" by party colleagues.

But he laughed off any suggestions the revelations could bring down his campaign in a video filmed on a beach in Torquay, where he was appearing at a hustings.

The MEP, whose constituency includes Shropshire, appears in sombre mood as the video begins, describing "a really tough week".

He then says his friends are worried he may not be able to carry on with the leadership campaign before whipping of his t-shirt to reveal a top sporting a message for his detractors: Quit? Not bloody likely!

He is then handed an ice cream and a plastic union flag and declares: "Bring it on, I can't wait. I'll be there every step of the way."

It comes after Mr Etheridge faced party members earlier this week following the social media outburst by Lorraine Chew.

In one tweet she labelled him a "dirty disgusting cheat", although Mr Etheridge has since insisted the pair had already split up.

Speaking in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, he decided to address the issue, stating sexual health issues were as serious as mental health problems and that "to ridicule men seeking help for this type of condition is below contempt and is below this great party".

Mr Etheridge is one of five contenders to replace Mr Farage, along with Lisa Duffy, Elizabeth Jones, Diane James and Philip Broughton. Shrewsbury's Suzanne Evans was not allowed to enter the race as she is currently suspended from UKIP following an apparent falling out with Mr Farage.