Steven Woolfe has launched a bid to succeed Nigel Farage as Ukip leader.

Mr Woolfe vowed to "ruthlessly" go after Labour voters, saying Ukip has "won the argument" for managed immigration.

The MEP for North West England also promised to drive a new focus on improving social mobility and professionalise the party.

However, Mr Woolfe maintained that Ukip would remain the "people's army" Nigel Farage created.

To old Labour voters let down by your party, I say Ukip will give you a voice. To the majority of Tory voters who voted Leave but have been lumbered with continuity Cameron under Theresa May, I say Ukip will welcome you. We must ruthlessly go after Labour seats in the North and the Midlands. And we must say to the 17.4 million people who voted Leave on June 23 - Ukip speaks for you. We are your new home. Stephen Woolfe

Mr Woolfe insisted Ukip would be a force for good, adding: "Millions of people up and down our nation have no say in this country as this country has not invested in them.

"It has left them on lower wages with poor schools, long waiting lists at hospitals, and they have been called stupid, racist and ignorant when they express valid concerns about the direction we are heading."

Fellow MEP Jonathan Arnott is the only other Ukip member to announce his candidacy for leadership of the party.