Brexit vote to leave EU sparks social media storm across world

THE decision by voters in Britain to leave the European Union has caused a social media storm.

The great and good took to Twitter on Friday morning to give their views on the historic decision.

Earlier on Friday, British prime minister David Cameron announed he is to step down by October after the UK voted to leave the European Union.

Speaking outside Downing Street and with his voice appearing to break, Mr Cameron said: "I love this country and I feel honoured to have served it." 

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Speculation has already begun on who will replace Mr Cameron, with Brexit opponents Boris Johnson and Michael Gove among names being mentioned.

More than £100 billion was wiped off the FTSE 100 as the index fell more than 7%, while the pound also crashed 8% against the US dollar.

Many of those behind the victorious Leave campaign have been happy to claim the bragging rights.

At a Northern Ireland level Stormont finance minister Máírtin Ó Muilleoir said he will work to calm local fears.

“Much to do today to bolster those across community who are worried about trade jobs and investment,” he said.

He added: “Need to provide bulwark to all our people nationalist, unionist and neither against impact of this decision.”

While many nationalists voted to remain, vote Leave campaigners like former DUP assembly minister Sammy Wilson couldn’t contain their delight.

“The sun is shining over an Independent United Kingdom! Thank you all – victorious,” he wrote.

Not all unionists shared the DUP man’s excitement.

UUP assembly member Doug Beattie said he voted to stay in the EU.

“I voted #remain because I thought it was right thing to do for the UK,” he said.

“Democracy decided otherwise...... so let's move on and #leave the EU.”

The vote to leave has attracted global attention and got the seal of approval from US presidential candidate Donald Trump.

He is in Scotland on Friday, which voted to remain in the EU, to open up a golf course.

“Just arrived in Scotland,” he said.

“Place is going wild over the vote.

“They took their country back, just like we will take America back. No games.”

He added: “Getting ready to open the magnificent Turnberry in Scotland.

“What a great day, especially when added to the brave and brilliant vote.”

The reaction of Trump has been met with approval form right wing commentators like former TUV election candidate David Vance.

"Wonderful comments from @realDonaldTrump!," he said.

“He is delighted we have chosen freedom and are leaving the EU.

“Can't wait for president Trump.”