Ron Brown

News of Ron Brown's death wasn't unexpected - we had heard he was ill, hospitalised and very poorly.

I am surprised by the large number of people who have taken the time to email or phone or stop to talk to me about the news. The gist of most comments is he was a Leither through and through and people believe he stood up for his constituents, particularly during the closure of Henry Robb. He is plainly remembered with great affection and that will be a consolation for his sons.

Once, May and I were great friends and there are many memories of campaigns and debates, elections and colourful parties. Both were extremely generous hosts and enjoyed a party almost as much as they loved their politics. Later memories of bitter argument and political differences have little place at a time like this. Ron and May have secured a place (and it will be more than a footnote) in Leith's history.