Former Blair strategist Lord Gould dies

The 61-year-old died on Sunday night at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London with his wife and daughters at his side.

Mr Blair paid tribute to Lord Gould, describing him as an "indispensable" member of the political team which secured three election victories.

He said: "Philip was such a huge part of the renaissance of the Labour Party.

I feel very proud and privileged to have known him Tony Blair

"To me he was my guide and mentor, a wise head, a brilliant mind, and a total rock when a storm was raging.

"He became indispensable. He was always a constant advocate for the British people, their hopes and anxieties. So his political contribution was immense.

"I feel very proud and privileged to have known him and to have been his friend."

Mr Blair added: "But then as his illness gripped him, he became something more.

"In facing death, he grew emotionally and spiritually into this remarkable witness to life's meaning and purpose."

Lord Gould leaves behind his wife, Gail Rebuck and daughters, Georgia and Grace.

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