Former Lib Dem leader Sir Menzies Campbell dies aged 84

Sir Menzies Campbell, the former Liberal Democrat leader, has died at the age of 84.

Campbell served as the Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for North East Fife for 28 years. He first stood for the Lib Dem seat in 1976 but did not win until 11 years later, a perseverance that helped him become a longstanding figure in Scottish and British politics. Known for his measured style and steady presence, Campbell helped shape the party through years of growth and political evolution as it sought a broader national footprint.

Before entering politics, Campbell built a reputation as an athlete. In his first career as a sprinter, he held the United Kingdom's 100-meter record from 1967 to 1974 and represented Britain at the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games. His speed on the track earned him the nickname The Flying Scotsman, a moniker that echoed into his later public life as a figure who combined discipline with a practical, problem-solving approach to policy.

In 2006, Campbell rose to the leadership of the Liberal Democrats, serving as party leader until 2007. His tenure came at a time when the Lib Dems were consolidating their position in British politics and charting a path for the party beyond its earlier roles. While his time at the helm was relatively brief, Campbell remained a respected elder statesman within the party and continued to contribute to discussions on parliamentary reform, defense, and constitutional issues from his position as a senior figure in Parliament and within Liberal Democrat circles.

Tributes from colleagues and political observers are expected as the news spreads. Campbell's career bridged two distinctive chapters of British public life: the postwar era of major political realignments in the United Kingdom and the later, more issue-focused debates that defined parliamentary life in the 21st century. His athletic past and public service record offered a unique blend of discipline, teamwork, and public service that left a lasting imprint on those who worked with him.

Details of his passing and arrangements are expected to be released by family and party representatives in the coming hours. In the meantime, observers recall a figure who combined athletic precision with a steady, principled approach to leadership and governance.