As a rule, I don't do party politics... the annoying floating voter who cannot, ultimately, align with any one group.  But Iwas deeply saddened to wake to to the news that Charles Kennedy had died at the young age of 55 - just three years older than me, way too young.

A man of deep convictions and strong principles, who opposed the war in Iraq, who opposed the coalition with the Conservatives, who faced his own demons often in the glare of media speculation.  His speech on losing his seat at the last election was characterised by humour and concern for those who employment was contingent the re-election of candidates... the "night of the lang sgian-dubh" as he dubbed it.

I hope and pray that he is now at peace, released from all that troubled and taunted him.

I hope that all that was good in his life and political work will be honoured and continued by those who follow in his footsteps, within the Lib Dems, and in other parties.

I hope, too, that those who knew and loved him will find comfort in these early days of loss and grief.

Eternal rest grant unto him, oh Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.  May he rest in peace.