'A dedicated public servant' - Former Hazel Grove MP Andrew Stunell passes away

The former Lib Dem MP for Hazel Grove, Andrew Stunell, has passed away.

Lord Stunell was elected MP for Hazel Grove in 1997 winning more than 50 percent of votes, a position he held until 2015.

An initial career in architecture followed a move into local politics, before he entered the House of Commons.

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Lord Stunell's career in politics saw him serve as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Communities and Local Government from May 2010 to September 2012.

From October 2015, Lord Stunell sat as a Liberal Democrat life peer in the House of Lords.

Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey said he was "shocked and deeply sorry" to learn of Lord Stunell's passing.

He added: "Andrew was a dedicated public servant, not least to the people of Hazel Grove whom he served for 18 years as their local MP, a formidable campaigner, and a committed Liberal who worked passionately on issues like the environment, local democracy and political reform.

"Andrew has been a source of wisdom and support to me for many years. His humour and kindness will be remembered fondly by all those who came into contact with him.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Andrew's wife, Gillian, and all his family."

Tributes to the former Hazel Grove MP have poured in from around Greater Manchester.

Coun Mark Hunter, leader of the Stockport Liberal Democrat Group, said: “Andrew was the rare kind of person that gives politics a good name. His commitment and dedication to public service and the Liberal Democrat cause was the stuff of legend.

"He was famous for his clear-sightedness and humility whatever the pressure - a real 'people person' even before the