YORKSHIRE MEP Godfrey Bloom has announced he is leaving UKIP after a series of gaffes at the party's annual conference.
He branded a group of female activists as "****s" at a Women in Politics talk during the London meeting.
Mr Bloom's comments were met with laughter in the crowd and he later said he was using the word as originally intended, to mean dirty or slovenly.
He was filmed the same day hitting Channel 4 News reporter Michael Crick over the head with a UKIP leaflet.
Mr Bloom called him a "racist" when the journalist asked why there were only white faces on a party flier.
UKIP leader Nigel Farage said Mr Bloom's behaviour had "gone beyond the pale" and overshadowed his keynote speech.
Mr Bloom's whip was withdrawn and Mr Farage accused him of "destroying" the conference.
In a statement issued through his press officer this morning, Mr Bloom said he would sit out the rest of his European Parliament term as an independent.
He said: "I have felt for some time now the 'new UKIP' is not really right for me anymore.
"However, our message is clear. Self-government. Our wonderful and loyal membership will win through with their dedication and hard work. It has been a pleasure to work with them for 15 years.
"May I take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to the thousands of people who have supported me with messages of good will.
"I shall sit out my term as an independent. I shall of course retain my membership."
Mr Bloom pledged support for Jane Collins, who he believes is likely to replace him as UKIP's candidate in the next European elections.
