One of the region's MEPs has hit out at UK Independence Party leader Nigel Farage's European Parliament outburst saying it will not help UK brexit negotiations.

Vicky Ford, who backed a vote to remain, said she would do what she could to try to minimise the negative impact of Britain's vote to leave.

She urged politicians to work together to secure the best possible terms for UK businesses, services and people to access the EU single market, whilst not being a member of the EU.

'I am spending this week consulting colleagues and contacts in Brussels and London, including meeting the foreign secretary yesterday. The UK has not yet triggered the Article 50 and it is important that all options and influence are kept open for the negotiations ahead. Therefore at least for the time being, I remain chairman of the parliament's Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee.'

She said she had never known so many MEPs listen so intensely in a debate in the European Parliament today.

'The UK's Commissioner Lord Hill, who has now resigned, was given a massive standing ovation by the vast majority of the parliament and many spoke of how they had valued the work and advice of colleagues from the UK.

'However, there was a great deal of tension and discord when both Nigel Farage and Marine Le Pen spoke. I do not believe this helps the UK negotiation. We are going to need cool heads as well as assistance from the friends that we have in other member states in the EU,' she added.

Ms Ford said it was comforting to hear the Dutch minister speaking on behalf of the 27 other countries about the need to find a mutually beneficial solution.

'The leader of the European People's Party (Merkel's allies) promised they would not let down the young people of the UK.'

'I know many people are concerned about science and research programmes. I managed to have a brief exchange with the commissioner for research, Carlos Moedas, yesterday and have scheduled a longer call for tomorrow. I am not sure how much clarity I can get at the moment as President Juncker has said there will be no negotiation until Article 50 is triggered. I will issue a press release if I hear more.

'It is a huge honour to represent the people of the East of England and I cannot thank you enough for the support and advice many of you have given me over recent years.

'We face uncertain times but will be stronger by continuing to work together. I remain committed to represent you to the best of my ability,' she added.