ONE of the Shrewsbury 24 workers unlawfully jailed for their roles in the 1972 construction industry strike has died.

Arthur Murray, who was born in 1934, was a key figure alongside Ricky Tomlinson and Des Warren in the long-running fight for justice for the Shrewsbury 24 pickets. He served six months in prison.

In March 2021, the Court of Appeal overturned the convictions after a campaign for justice that lasted almost half a century: politicians, construction bosses and the police were all implicated in a conspiracy against the workers.

Solicitor Paul Heron of the Public Interest Law Centre represented Mr Murray at the appeal. He said: “Arthur grew up in a working-class family, embodying the spirit of solidarity that would define him. 

“He was a campaigner for workers’ rights and his life was one of trade union commitment, courage and unyielding dedication to the cause of the working-class movement.”

Mr Murray is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.