The head of the Church in Scotland has paid tribute to former Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy, who has died aged 55.
Archbishop Philip Tartaglia, President of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, said that that the death of Mr Kennedy, a Catholic, was “tragically premature”.
“It is a great loss not only to politics in our country but to the principles of civic and civilised engagement. His wisdom and courtesy were a mark of his highland upbringing, his political skill grew from his sharp intellect and his humility and concern for others was testament to his deeply held beliefs,” he said today.
Mr Kennedy, party leader from 1999 to 2006, lost his seat in Ross, Skye and Lochaber last month to SNP candidate Ian Blackford. He had recently lost his father, who died, aged 88, in April.
Charles Kennedy's death, at his home in Fort William in Scotland, is not being treated as suspicious.
The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, Dr Angus Morrison, also expressed his sorrow at Mr Kennedy’s sudden death.
He said today: “He will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most talented politicians of his generation. But he was much more than that. With his impish smile, distinct Highland voice and quick sense of humour, he was able to communicate effectively with people far beyond the circle of politics. His down-to-earth humanity ensured that he was held in affection by people of all political persuasions, and none.”
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