Charles Kennedy's Resignation

9.00.00am GMT Sat 7th Jan 2006

Local Liberal Democrats have paid tribute to Charles Kennedy MP who today resigned as party Leader.

Northampton Local Party Chair John Rawlings said "Charles has been a tremendous leader of our party and it is very sad that circumstances have led to him having to take the decision to stand down. Under his leadership the party has become the most successful liberal force in 80 years with the highest number of MP's since the 1920's and over 1 million more votes at the last election. The courageous and principled stand against the war in Iraq and for the defence of civil liberties and social justice has given the Liberal Democrats their distinctive place in the politics of our country."

Northampton Borough Lib Dem Group Leader Tony Woods said" Our growing strength in Northampton has been helped by the way Charles Kennedy has lead us nationally. His appeal to the public and his rejection of the spin and falseness of national politics has helped us grow our local campaigning on behalf of people. His frankness and openness is something we all try and follow in our work locally."

Andrew Simpson Parliamentary Candidate for Northampton North in the May 2005 General Election said " Charles popularity with voters was clear at the General Election as well as his brave stand against both the Tory and labour position over the war in Iraq. He has done the right thing in bringing the recent events to a conclusion and it is typical of his dedication to our party that he has pledged his 100% support for continuing to work for a more liberal and democratic society".