Former Ulster Unionist MP Cecil Walker has died suddenly, the party said yesterday.
Mr Walker (81) was the MP for North Belfast from 1983 to 2001 when he lost the seat to the DUP's Nigel Dodds. It is believed he had a heart attack.
North Belfast Assembly member Fred Cobain, who spoke to him last week, said he was a huge loss to the Ulster Unionist Party. "He was a tremendous individual and had a great rapport with ordinary working-class people in the constituency and was a personal friend. This really has taken the wind out of those who knew him."
Mr Walker originally contested North Belfast in 1979 but lost to the DUP's Johnny McQuade. He captured the seat four years later after Mr McQuade stood down.
Close friends said that since retiring from frontline politics after the 2001 election he maintained a keen interest and loved to hear the latest political gossip.
UUP leader Sir Reg Empey described Mr Walker as a dedicated public servant. "His friendly and gentlemanly manner endeared him to both political friend and foe alike," the East Belfast Assembly member said.
"He was widely respected within the unionist family and will be sorely missed by all who knew him."
Sir Reg's predecessor, Lord Trimble, described Mr Walker as a loyal representative of the Ulster Unionist Party who was known for tireless work on behalf of his constituents. "I will always remember him with great affection," he said.
SDLP Assembly member Alban Maginness said the former MP had shown a firm commitment to peace and harmony.
"I am sorry to learn of Cecil Walker's death and I extend my full sympathy to his family," he said. - (PA)