TRIBUTES were paid yesterday to Greater Manchester Labour MP Jim Dobbin, who was a steadfast opponent of the Iraq war and the replacement of Trident nuclear missiles.

The Heywood and Middleton MP died suddenly aged 73 while on a visit to Poland.

“This is a very sad loss for our borough and for Parliament,” said Philip Gilligan of Rochdale and Littleborough Peace Group.

“Jim was a politician who could be relied on to act on principle and to promote the cause of peace. 

“He voted against the invasion of Iraq in 2003 and remained firm in his consistent opposition to plans to renew the Trident nuclear weapons system. 

“The peace group greatly welcomed Jim’s support and encouragement over many years. He will be sadly missed.”

Tributes also came from Labour leader Ed Miliband, former deputy PM John Prescott and Commons speaker John Bercow.