Former Ukip deputy chairman Suzanne Evans has failed in her challenge to a decision to suspend her from the party for six months.

The move came after a disciplinary meeting found that she spoke out against a Ukip candidate and held herself out as a party spokesman without authority.

Lawyers for Ms Evans, who was not at London's High Court, said she was the victim of a vendetta and had raised legitimate concerns.

Her counsel, Henry Hendron, said the suspension was disproportionate as it had the effect of kicking her out of the London Assembly elections in May.

But on Wednesday, Mr Justice Mitting refused to grant an injunction preventing the suspension taking effect until after the nominations are closed at the end of March.