Shirley Williams, Baroness Williams of Crosby

It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that Shirley Williams, Baroness Williams of Crosby, died peacefully in the early hours of Monday April 12th.

This is heartbreaking news for our whole Liberal Democrat family.

Shirley has been an inspiration to millions, a Liberal lion and a true trailblazer. I feel privileged to have known her, listened to her and worked with her. Like so many others, I will miss her terribly.

Political life will be poorer without her intellect, her wisdom and her generosity. Shirley had a limitless empathy only too rare in politics today; she connected with people, cared about their lives and saw politics as a crucial tool to change lives for the better.

As a young Liberal, Shirley Williams had a profound impact on me, as she did on countless others across the political spectrum. Her vision and bravery, not least in founding the SDP, continues to inspire Liberal Democrats today.

We have set up an online book of condolence should you wish to share a message or simply leave your name. You can sign the book here: www.libdems.org.uk/book-of-condolence-shirley-williams