Maidstone and the Weald MP Helen Grant has today expressed her disappointment at the EU referendum result and her admiration for the 'courageous and brave' Prime Minister.

The former sports minister's comments came after David Cameron announced he was to step down as PM and leader of the Conservative Party.

Mrs Grant said although disappointed with the result, which saw the United Kingdom deliver a decisive vote to leave the EU, 'what's done is done'.

She added: "We must now work together to preserve the unity of the United Kingdom and protect our economy whilst we navigate a new course in an uncertain world."

Speaking about Mr Cameron, who appointed Mrs Grant as sports minister in 2013 before she was replaced by neighbouring MP Tracey Crouch two years later, she said: "David Cameron has been courageous and brave in giving the country this choice.

"He is a man of the utmost integrity and sincerity and he has been an outstanding leader, taking us out of the recession and into a strong economy.

"His resignation announcement today is a sad moment in the career of a person I admire hugely. He will be a very tough act to follow."

Mrs Grant ended by saying her focus remained squarely upon serving her constituents and looking after their best interests, adding: "There is much to do now that the referendum is over."