The Foreign Secretary also dismissed reports that his marriage was in trouble, revealing that his wife Ffion has had multiple miscarriages, including one this summer.

BBC: 'Serious questions' over Hague's judgement

Prime Minister Tony Blair and his wife Cherie voted in Westminster at 0850 BST on Thursday, while Tory leader William Hague and wife Ffion were also voting in central London.

BBC: Voters go to the polls

For Ffion Lloyd, Ryder Cup project director at Newport City Council, the tournament is already playing a key role in Newport's continuing redevelopment from a former industrial town to a modern city with a diversified and growing economy.

BBC: Newport tees up for Ryder Cup boost