THE influence of Rory Stewart on the Tory leadership race has been highlighted as a positive by supporters and rivals.

Many took to social media to share their thoughts after he crashed out of the contest last night - with Boris Johnson still the runaway favourite.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, who finished second in the latest round, tweeted: “@RoryStewartUK’s impact was much greater than his fifth place suggests. He challenged us on the difficulty of improving the Brexit deal, the need 4 compromise & the need to reach out.

“Our party only has a future if it creates room 4 great talents like Rory & Boris 2 come together.”

Fellow contender Sajid Javid tweeted: “Thank you @RoryStewartUK for the positive impact you have had on this campaign. You’ve injected it with real humility, authenticity, and pragmatism.

“Like many I look forward to seeing the contribution you will make to our party and the country in the future.”

Justice Secretary David Gauke posted: “Disappointed that the leadership campaign of @RoryStewartUK has come to an end. But it has been a privilege to have supported him.

“He has been an inspirational candidate delivering a message of honesty & realism. He’s now a major figure in our politics with a big role to play.”

And Mid Sussex MP Nicholas Soames tweeted: “Terrific Campaign by @RoryStewartUK only Candidate who could reach all parts of the Union.

“Heroic effort.”