Lib Dem Peer Lord Richard Holme Dies

Senior Liberal Democrat Lord Holme has died at the age of 71 after a long illness, it has been announced. The peer was the party's Northern Ireland spokesman in the 1990s and a close advisor to Sir Menzies Campbell, Paddy Ashdown and David Steel.

A family spokesman said: "Lord Holme of Cheltenham died yesterday at his home in Lurgashall, West Sussex, after a long battle with cancer."

He leaves his wife, Lady Holme, two sons, two daughters and grandchildren. His family said the funeral will be held in the village church and a memorial service will take place in London at a later date.

Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg said Lord Holme had made a "huge contribution" to the party over many decades would be "greatly missed".

"His wisdom, kindness and advice were a great source of support for every party leader during that time."

Lord Richard Holme was chairman of the 1997 Lib Dem election campaign, was made a privy councillor in 2000 and served as chairman of the Lords Constitution Committee.