OTLEY'S MP has added his tribute to those being paid to former Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy who died suddenly this week, aged 55.

Mr Kennedy served as an MP for 32 years, but was ousted from his Ross, Skye and Lochaber constituency at the general election.

MP Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) said: "I'm shocked and saddened to hear of Charles' death.

"He was the leader of the party when I was selected and elected. I first met him when he came to Leeds North West during that election campaign.

"It's a big loss to the party, to Liberal politics and politics as a whole. He was somebody who was respected across the political spectrum and known for his ability to connect with ordinary people.

"He will be longest remembered for the decision to oppose the war in Iraq."

Mr Kennedy's leadership, which saw the Lib Dems enjoy their greatest electoral success in 2005, ended after he admitted an alcohol problem.

The loss of his seat followed an election campaign during which his 88-year-old father, Ian, died.

He is survived by his ten-year-old son, Donald.

Former Lib Dem leader and deputy prime minister Nick Clegg said the UK had been robbed "of one of the most gifted politicians of his generation."

Prime Minister David Cameron said: "He was a talented politician who has died too young."

Police were called to Mr Kennedy's house in Fort William on Monday, after being alerted by the ambulance service.

The cause of is death is not thought to be suspicious.