Manchester Central MP Tony Lloyd has paid tribute to Labour stalwart Michael Foot, who has died at the age of 96.

Mr Lloyd, who is Lloyd MP chairman of the Parliamentary Labour Party said: “Michael Foot passing away signals the end of a great life and an era in politics but his memory will live on in the work of those inspired by him and in those who will read his writings.

“Michael was at the heart of the Labour party and was inspired by the values of democratic socialism in turn he inspired those around him to work to promote those ideals. He will be missed by his many friends and admirers from all walks of life.”

Michael Foot was born in Plymouth, Devon, and was elected to the House of Commons in 1945 having first stood as a Labour candidate in 1935.

He became leader of the Labour party in 1980 and was leader of the opposition against Margaret Thatcher.

He represented the socialist side of 'old' Labour and was a was a campaigner for nuclear disarmament. He always rejected honours from the Queen and the government, including a knighthood and a peerage.

Mr Foot returned to the back benches in 1983 and retired from the House of Commons in 1992.

He was married to the film-maker, author and feminist historian Jill Craigie from 1949 until her death in 1999.

Michael Foot died on Wednesday, March 3.