Lord Steel’s son was left ‘devastated’ over death

The son of former Liberal leader Lord Steel has said he is “devastated” by the death of a woman who fell unwell at a party in his home.

Claire Maccabe, 44, died in hospital after taking ill at a property in the village of Stow in the Scottish Borders on Saturday.

Police Scotland said the death was being treated as unexplained, but not suspicious.

It was reported Ms Maccabe fell ill during a 52nd birthday party for friend Graeme Steel – the son of the former politician David Steel.

In a statement, Graeme Steel said: “The tragic death of Claire Maccabe has left me, my family and friends devastated.

“Matt has lost his wife and their child has lost their mother. Words cannot express how we all feel by this loss.”