Home Secretary Theresa May has had an early boost to her bid to become the next Conservative leader with endorsements from three Kent MPs.

Their support came just hours before former London mayor Boris Johnson announced in a shock move this lunchtime he will NOT be standing for the role.

He ruled himself out of the race, saying "it cannot be me".

But, minutes before the announcement our political editor Paul Francis tweeted that he thought he wouldn't stand.

Sir Roger Gale (North Thanet), Damian Collins (Shepway) and Damian Green (Ashford) have all voiced their support for Mrs May's bid, saying she is best suited to the role.

Sir Roger said: I believe that in Theresa May we have found someone who has emerged with the experience, skill and ability to reunite not just or even the Conservative Party but the whole Country. She accepts the reality of the vote and she is ready to bat for Britain.

He added: "I hope that we can now rally behind her and make the United Kingdom work again on the world stage.”

Shepway MP Damian Collins, who supported the Remain camp in the referendum, said: "I'm supporting Theresa May to become our next Prime Minister. She is a serious figure with the experience to lead and unite our country."

Ashford MP Damian Green said he was shocked at the Boris Johnson announcement.

He said: "It is a completely extraordinary day in politics. I am a good friend of Boris and I feel sorry for him.

"To lose the person who is your chief campaign manager on the morning of your campaign is extraordinary. It will be interesting to see what Michael Gove has to say about it.”

South Thanet MP Craig Mackinlay said

Craig Mackinlay the South Thanet MP and Brexit supporter said he had been erring towards supporting Boris Johnson.

“I have pushed the pause button. For me personally, it is about having a Brexiteer and someone who can unite the party. I was quite attracted to the Johnson-Gove ticket.”

Ms May has quickly established a lead among what looks like being a crowded field in the battle to succeed David Cameron.

Michael Gove caused a shock this morning when he announced his candidacy having previously said he would not stand in a contest that has sprung into life.

Candidates declared: Theresa May; Angela Leadson; Michael Gove; Liam Fox; Stephen Crabb

The leadership contest will run until early September.