| Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has paid tribute to Durham Miners' Gala secretary Dave Hopper, who has died. His death on Saturday came one week after he shared a platform with Mr Corbyn at the 132nd gala - one of Europe's largest trade union events, also known as the "Big Meeting". Mr Corbyn said Mr Hopper was "a pillar of strength for the working class". Mr Hopper had backed Mr Corbyn to retain control in the Labour leadership contest. A number of other MPs also took to Twitter to pay tribute to Mr Hopper. Ian Lavery, Labour MP for Wansbeck and former president of the National Union of Mineworkers, tweeted: "Sad news I'm afraid. My very good friend the legendary Durham Miners general secretary Davey Hopper died this afternoon. RIP comrade & friend". Grahame Morris, Labour MP for Easington, tweeted: "Dave Hopper a colossus of the trade union and labour movement who supported the oppressed & fought for social justice all of his life R.I.P." Angela Rayner, Labour MP for Ashton, Droylsden and Failsworth, said: "Dave Hopper of the Durham Miners was a giant in the Labour movement and a staunch Socialist, R.I.P. our friend...." |