Tributes paid to 'working class legend' and former Blyth Valley MP Ronnie Campbell after death aged 80

Tributes have flooded in after the death of a Northumberland MP who served his community for more than three decades.

A former miner who started down the pits aged 15, Ronnie Campbell represented Blyth Valley for 32 years. He was first elected in 1987 continued as the constituency’s MP until standing down in the 2019 election.

Mr Campbell has been described as an impressive campaigner, and a dedicated servant of the people of Blyth Valley. It was confirmed on Friday morning that he had passed away in the early hours after a short illness at the age of 80.

He is survived by his wife Deirdre, a county councillor with whom he celebrated their golden wedding anniversary in 2017, and five children.

Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer spoke of his sadness at Mr Campbell’s death and described him as a dedicated servant to the people of Blyth Valley and an impressive campaigner. He added: “I send my, and the entire Labour Party’s condolences, to Ronnie’s wife, Deirdre, their children, family and friends.”

Ian Lavery, MP for Wansbeck and a close friend of Mr Campbell, paid tribute to him as the “epitome of the North East” and a “working class legend”. He said: “His heart was in the region which he proudly represented so well at all levels.

“Ronnie was proud of the region’s history, conditions, and culture, and would fight for the best interests of everybody he represented. The man is an absolute working class legend, his politics were fantastic, and he’ll be a sad loss to the entire community.”

Ian Levy, current MP in Mr Campbell’s former Blyth Valley seat, said: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Blyth Valley MP, Ronnie Campbell. Ronnie was a good man who I know loved Blyth and all the people who live and work here.

“Ronnie always put party differences aside when we met and was willing to have a cup of tea and share his experience. My thoughts are with Deirdre and the rest of his family at this sad time.”

In 2020, Mr Campbell spoke to ChronicleLive and reflected on his career a year after his retirement from politics. He said that he was proud of securing Enterprise Zone status for Blyth Estuary and the regeneration that led to; getting funding for new school buildings including the Blyth Academy; drawing attention to and funding to tackle drug issues in the constituency; and most importantly, being there for locals who needed him whatever their issue.

Coun Scott Dickinson, Northumberland County Council’s Labour opposition leader, mourned the loss of one of the North East’s most authentic political figures, saying: “Ronnie devoted decades of his life to serving the people of Blyth Valley and the wider North East. As an MP, he tirelessly represented the community.

“Working alongside Ronnie on various campaigns and matters was a pleasure; he consistently supported and advised me, infusing moments with humor when needed. His deep love for his family, including his wife Deirdre, their children, and numerous grandchildren, was evident in his passionate demeanor towards them all.

“Ronnie’s passing is a significant loss that will deeply affect many individuals, and the Labour Party mourns the loss of one of the North East’s most authentic personalities. He will be greatly missed by all of us.”

The county council’s Labour Group expressed their “deep sadness” at Ronnie’s passing. A statement read: “A former miner and MP for Blyth Valley, Ronnie tirelessly served the communities of Blyth Valley and the North East for many years. Known for his unwavering dedication and compassion towards those in need, he was a beloved figure to everyone. Ronnie cherished his family dearly, including his wife Deirdre, their children, and numerous grandchildren, showing immense love to each one.

“Many of us had the privilege of collaborating with Ronnie, sharing memorable and humorous moments that highlight his remarkable life as we reflect. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and all those grieving the loss of this exceptional North East personality.”

Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, added: “I’m very much saddened to hear of Ronnie’s passing. I admired his passion and dedication to his constituents and people across our county whom he served with courage and distinction. He will be sadly missed and I wish to offer my sincere condolences to his wife, Deirdre, and family at this time.”

Jamie Driscoll, the independent mayor of North of Tyne, described Mr Campbell as a good man and a good friend. He said: “He was exactly what’s missing in modern politics – someone rooted in his area who stuck to his principles. He led picket lines in the miners’ strike, even getting arrested twice. He was never about spin or building a political career. Without fear or favour he pushed to get the best for the people he represented. My deepest condolences to his wife Deirdre and the family. It’s a sad loss.”

Kim McGuinness, North East Police and Crime Commissioner and Labour Mayoral Candidate, posted on X, formerly Twitter: “So sad to hear about the death of Ronnie Campbell. Ronnie was the ultimate champion for the people of Blyth, straight talking, caring and dedicated. A huge loss to the UK Labour family and our region. My love and thoughts are with Deirdre and all Ronnie’s family and loved ones.”