The results of a ballot carried out by Rochester and Strood MP Mark Reckless to gauge how many of his constituents would like the UK to leave the European Union have been announced.

In the first poll of its kind in 40 years, more than 80% voted NO to Britain remaining in the EU.

But of the 45,000 postal voting papers sent out, less than 9% responded.

Mr Reckless was satisfied with feedback and the response from the £5,000 to £6,000 month-long exercise which was funded by his constituency party and supporters.

The Euro-sceptic Conservative MP said: "To be honest , it's more than we get in some national polls. Those who did vote obviously have strong issues about being in the EU.

"There are those who have issues regarding immigration and the economy but don't make the link with our EU membership.

"I have had very positive feedback. People have contacted me to say thank you for giving them the chance to have their say."

Mr Reckless added: "I think it is now a question of when we have a national referendum, rather than if.

"If my party win the next election, I would think it would be by the end of 2017.

The question residents were asked in the pilot ballot, was: "Should the United Kingdom be a member of the European Union?"

A total of 3,756 votes were recorded. Of these 3,015 were in favour of leaving and 741 electing to remain in the EU.