The removal of Arlene Foster as leader of the DUP and First Minister was not supported by her local association, who have spoken out just days before she is due to step down as party leader.

The DUP Fermanagh and South Tyrone released a statement on Facebook on Wendesday voicing "their disgust at the manner in which our Party Leader, First Minister and local MLA RT Hon Arlene Foster has been treated over recent weeks".

The statement continued: "Arlene has worked tirelessly over the years not just for Fermanagh and South Tyrone but right across Northern Ireland - helping all constituencies."

The Fermanagh and South Tyrone Association said the ousting of Mrs. Foster "was not done in our name".

"The Fermanagh and South Tyrone DUP association have unanimously backed Arlene Foster to remain as our MLA, however we recognise this is a personal decision.

"We appreciate that Arlene has sacrificed so much personally over the years for public service, but this Association will stand firm by her side."

The post was shared by East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson among others.