Rail union leader Bob Crow has died, it has been announced.
The Rail, Maritime and Transport union made the announcement “with the deepest regret”.
A brief statement said: “It is with the deepest regret that RMT has to confirm that our general secretary Bob Crow sadly passed away in the early hours of this morning.
“RMT would request that all media respect the privacy of the friends and family of Bob Crow at this distressing time.”
Under Mr Crow’s leadership, membership of the RMT increased by more than 20,000 to 80,000, embracing workers ranging from seafarers and rail staff to cleaners.
He spoke at rallies and meetings most weekends, and was always in demand to support campaigns. Last summer he headed a rally in Aberdeen for oil workers concerned about offshore safety in the wake of the Super Puma helicopter crash.
Labour leader Ed Miliband led the tributes to the 52-year-old, who is thought to have suffered a heart attack.
“Bob Crow was a major figure in the labour movement and was loved and deeply respected by his members,” said Mr Miliband.
“I didn’t always agree with him politically but I always respected his tireless commitment to fighting for the men and women in his union. He did what he was elected to do, was not afraid of controversy and was always out supporting his members across the country.
“He was a passionate defender of and campaigner for safe, affordable public transport and was a lifelong anti-fascist activist.
“My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues in the RMT and wider union movement at this difficult time.”
Mr Crow had become a target of right-wing commentators, who criticised his militancy and involvement in disputes.
He even had to explain why he had gone on holiday in the run-up to last month’s London Underground strike.
He had maintained he wanted to do the “very best” for his members, wherever they worked and whichever political party they belonged to, saying: “I will be the captain, steering the ship, but the members will make all the decisions.”
