Jeb Bush drops out of presidential race after Donald Trump wins in South Carolina primary

Mr Bush makes announcement after winning just 7.8% of the vote

Jeb Bush has officially suspended his presidential campaign following a disappointing result in the South Carolina primary.

The 63-year-old’s fourth-place finish was the final straw, after poor results in both Iowa and New Hampshire.

A visibly emotional Mr Bush made the announcement in a speech after winning just 7.8% of the vote.

"I'm proud of the campaign we have run," he said.

"But the people of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina have spoken and I really respect their decision, so tonight I am suspending my campaign.

"When I began this journey in Miami I committed that I would campaign as I would serve, going everywhere, speaking to everyone, keeping my word, facing the issues without flinching and staying true to what I believe.

"I fully believe the American people must entrust this office to someone who believes whoever holds it is a servant, not the master.

"With strong conservative leadership, Republicans can win the White House," Bush said. "That's what I honestly believe and I know you do as well.”

Mr Bush also took time to pay tribute to his family legacy, praising his father, former president George HW Bush, his mother, former first lady Barbara Bush, and his brother, former president George W Bush.

“America truly loves them and respects them,” he said.

Mr Bush’s decision comes as pressure on him to pull out from the race to pave the way for a viable candidate to stop Donald Trump grew.

Mr Trump was the standout winner of the night, getting 32.5% of vote, 10% clear of second placed Marco Rubio.