LIB DEM PADDY IS DEAD AT 77 Tributes to heroic ex-party leader

FORMER Lib Dem leader Paddy Ashdown died last night aged 77 after a short illness.

The politician announced a few weeks ago he had bladder cancer.

Tributes from all parties poured in for the heroic former Royal Marine commando who led the Lib Dems from 1988 to 1999.

Current leader Vince Cable said: “He was famous for his politics, but his talents extended well beyond that arena.

“In recent years, he has been powerful voice of real significance to the pro

European cause.”

Former Tory

Prime Minister

John Major said:

“In Government

Paddy Ashdown was my opponent.

“In life, he was a much valued friend. His loss will be felt deeply by many and not least by myself. Through his life, Paddy was a true patriot, whose overriding wish was to serve his country – first, in the Marines and then in both Houses of Parliament.”

Labour’s Tom Watson tweeted: “He was a decent, measured and dedicated public servant.”

Mr Ashdown, MP for Yeovil from 1983 to 2001, hit the headlines four years into his leadership.

He revealed he had had a five-month affair with his secretary, which led to the nickname “Paddy Pantsdown”. His marriage to wife Jane survived the scandal.

After stepping down as leader in 1999, Mr Ashdown – who served in t he Marines’ Special Boat Service – was knighted and then made a peer as Lord Ashdown of Norton-sub-hamdon.