First presidential debate - as it happened: Hillary Clinton comes out on top as defensive Donald Trump flounders

The two rivals went head-to-head in the first of three Presidential debates

Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump faced off in their first debate since becoming the presidential nominees.

The candidates entered the debate in a near dead heat as polls showed Ms Clinton's lead all but disappear. But Ms Clinton may see a boost after tonight's performance, during which Mr Trump appeared underprepared.

Mr Trump repeatedly resorted to the version of himself present during the Republican primaries, as he continuously interrupted Ms Clinton and continued to repeat falsehoods.

Catch up on the debate as it happened:

• Hillary Clinton accuses Donald Trump of racism as gloves come off
• Where did Lester Holt go during the first presidential debate?
• Clinton and Trump are in a dead heat, says Nate Silver
• Why won't Donald Trump release his tax returns, and are they hiding a ‘bombshell’?
• Clinton to defeat Isis by taking out leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi

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