Nigel Farage quashes idea that he is getting ready to join the DUP

He moved to end the rumours as he was due to appear at an event hosted by the DUP in Ballymena in Co Antrim on Friday evening.

Mr Farage, a former leader of Ukip, said: “I will be remaining Ukip MEP.

“I have shared platforms with Labour MP Kate Hoey, Tory minister Liam Fox and other people like George Galloway.

“I am happy to support those who supported the Leave campaign during the Brexit referendum.

“My visit is nothing more than that.”

DUP MP Ian Paisley described Mr Farage as a “great friend” on Twitter adding: “I notice the media fever over this already. I welcome many guests from many parties to North Antrim and Nigel will love the place and it’s people.”

A DUP spokesman said: “Mr Farage has already indicated this trip is not about joining the DUP.”

In any event, under DUP rules you cannot be a member of the party unless you live in Northern Ireland, the spokesman added.

Earlier Arron Banks, who bankrolled Ukip, was asked during an interview on Sky News if Mr Farage would use the DUP to run for Parliament.

He said all things were possible in politics.

Mr Farage visited Northern Ireland several times when he was leader of Ukip.

A branch of Ukip in Northern Ireland was set up under former Ulster Unionist David McNarry but it has failed to establish itself as a one of the main parties.

Mr Farage encouraged the Republic of Ireland to “Irexit” from the EU during a speech in Dublin recently.

Ukip has slid in the polls across the UK following the Brexit referendum and has no MPs.