Boris Johnson: There will be ‘bumps’ but Brexit can be turned into a ‘stunning success’

Boris Johnson releases a message ahead of Britain’s departure from the EU at 11pm, the prime minister said it represented an “astonishing moment of hope”.

Boris Johnson has said there will be “bumps in the road” once Britain has left the EU, but has confidence that the “opportunity” of Brexit can be turned into a “stunning success”.

He also acknowledged that there will be others who “feel a sense of anxiety and loss” at the end of the UK’s 47 year membership.

“This is the moment when the dawn breaks and the curtain goes up on a new act in our great national drama.”

Downing Street is hosting a commemorative light show, while Brexit supporters gather for a party on Parliament Square.

A crowd also gathered across the road from Number 10, brandishing EU flags and anti-Brexit pacards.

In Brussels, the UK flag will be removed from EU institutions. One Union flag is expected to be placed in a museum.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn who will step down in April, said Britain was now “at a crossroads”.

“I wish the government well in all their endeavours,” he added.

Once the UK has left the EU, it will enter into an 11 month transition period, where the UK will continue to follow EU rules and regulations.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, said relations would not be as close as when Britain was a member of the EU.

“We want to have the best possible relationship with the United Kingdom, but it will never be as good as membership.”