England football legend Gary Lineker has publicly backed Rory Stewart for Conservative Party leader.

The former footballer turned TV star came out in support of the Cumbrian MP on Twitter, saying he is the "only candidate making any sense" just now.

It came as Mr Stewart, who represents Penrith and the Border, officially launched his bid to become the next Tory leader - and future Prime Minister.

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Last night Lineker tweeted: "If the next Tory party leader and therefore PM were to be elected by the general public, I reckon @RoryStewartUK would win hands down.

"Only candidate making any sense and reason of all the madness.

"It’s not though, so he more than certainly won’t."

Mr Stewart then responded, saying: "Thank you @GaryLineker v much - I think we may be gaining some momentum anyway..."