Tributes to Pendle councillor and Lord Tony Greaves who has died at home

The respected, long-standing Liberal Democrat left a huge personal imprint on Pendle and national politics over many years.

A statement from the Pendle Lib Dem group tonight announced the shock death of the political heavyweight.

"It is with great sadness that we have to report that Tony Greaves passed away today at his home in Winewall.

"A representative for people in Colne s Waterside ward, Tony championed the needs of Colne and its people since the days of Colne Borough Council in the 1960s, initially campaigning against the demolition of the old Colne town centre.

"Passionate and principled, Tony stood up for residents throughout over half a century of service to the people of Colne at Pendle Council and Lancashire County Council.

"In recent years, Tony became a member of the House of Lords, where he continued to campaign for the interests of local people.

"The Colne Liberal team sends its sincere condolences to Tony's wife Heather, daughters Vicky and Helen and grandson Robin.

"Not only is this a very sad day for his family, it is a sad day for Colne, too."