Liz Truss's resignation has been met with criticism of the Tories, demands for an election and calls to "bring back Boris".

Ms Truss stepped down this afternoon (October 20) after a tumultuous six weeks claiming she “could not deliver the mandate” on which she was elected.

Minutes after the announcement, shoppers at atria Watford gave us their reaction and revealed who they want to replace her.

Keiran, 26, said he thinks all the Tory candidates are "inept", adding: "I guess Rishi Sunak is probably the most viable option out of everyone.

"I’m just praying for the next general election."

Watford Observer: Keiran was in Watford to promote 'Doctors Without Borders'. Image: Pearce BatesKeiran was in Watford to promote 'Doctors Without Borders'. Image: Pearce Bates (Image: Pearce Bates)

Support for Mr Sunak was echoed by 26-year-old Harsh, who said: "He’s thinking more about the long-term benefits to the United Kingdom.

"Some of his strategies are tailored to the long-term. That’s what the country needs."
Watford Observer: Harsh believes that long-term gain should outweigh short-term struggles. Image: Pearce BatesHarsh believes that long-term gain should outweigh short-term struggles. Image: Pearce Bates (Image: Pearce Bates)

Meanwhile "bring back Boris" was Wayne from Watford's message, who said whoever takes the helm has a "tough game ahead of them".

Referring to Ms Truss, he added: "I think she’s probably been the shortest serving PM in history!

"I reckon they should bring back Boris Johnson, give him another go."

Watford Observer: Wayne spoke of how Truss' successor had a "tough game ahead of them". Image: Pearce BatesWayne spoke of how Truss' successor had a "tough game ahead of them". Image: Pearce Bates (Image: Pearce Bates)

Shreejana Banji believes Liz Truss had to resign given the economic turmoil sparked by her mini-budget – which saw the pound fall to an all-time low.

She also hit out at the attempted tax cuts for top earners, adding: "Definitely it was profitable for the rich people, not for those like us who are working."

Watford Observer: Shreejana Banji believes Liz Truss had to resign due to the state of the economy. Image: Pearce BatesShreejana Banji believes Liz Truss had to resign due to the state of the economy. Image: Pearce Bates (Image: Pearce Bates)

Meanwhile Dale, 21, who works in Lola's Cupcakes, voiced concern over Ms Truss' resignation, saying: "If someone in charge is stepping down, it will have an effect on Watford."

Watford Observer: Dale spoke of his concern for Watford, amid Truss' resignation. Image: Pearce BatesDale spoke of his concern for Watford, amid Truss' resignation. Image: Pearce Bates (Image: Pearce Bates)

Shortly after the resignation Tory candidates began throwing their hats in the ring as the starting gun for another leadership contest was fired.

The contestants will need to get the backing of 100 MPs by Monday afternoon and if there are two candidates, Tory members will again vote for the winner by next Friday.

Rishi Sunak is currently the bookies' odds-on favourite, followed by Penny Mordaunt, Boris Johnson and Ben Wallace.