Will Paisley retire as DUP's leader?

Reverend Ian Paisley has stepped down as the head of the Free Presbyterian Church, fuelling growing speculation about his future leadership of the DUP.

Earlier this week, newspaper reports suggested Mr Paisley may decide to retire before the British general election expected in the middle of next year.

That speculation is further fuelled by comments made by Mr Paisley's son, Ian Paisley Jr, who said he thought the next leader of the DUP should be the current deputy, Peter Robinson.

Mr Paisley had been head of the Free Presbyterian Church since he founded it more than 50 years ago. Toward the end of last year, however, Mr Paisley indicated his willingness to step down as moderator of the church.

Some believe the move may have been prompted by fears of growing unease among congregation members over the DUP's power sharing agreement with Sinn Féin.

Last night, at a meeting of senior members of the Free Presbyterian Church in Dungannon, Mr Paisley duly stepped aside as moderator and was replaced by a clergyman from Armagh, Rev Ron Johnston.