The retired politician, who was elected nationally in 1987 and represented the Labour Party until 2005, died on April 20.

During his 18-year career in the House of Commons, he fought long and hard for recognition and compensation for victims of asbestos-related illnesses.

At an event to mark International Workers’ Day, held by the Clydebank Asbestos Group (CAG), tributes were paid by colleagues and friends of the politician who started in politics in the 1970s in Dunbartonshire and then at Strathclyde Regional Council.

Tommy Gorman, Trustee at CAG, said: “CAG and all the asbestos campaigns throughout the UK owe a debt to Tony and a small group of MPs at that time who stood firm when it was difficult for asbestos victims to get a hearing anywhere on these important issues, health issues, and legal matters, and in particular social security decisions at that time.

“Tony was responsible for their compensation recovery campaign, taking on a national profile.”

Tony was diagnosed with vascular dementia after noticing changes in his memory whilst undergoing treatment for prostate cancer.

Current MP for West Dunbartonshire, Douglas McAllister, paid tribute to Tony in the House of Commons.

He said: “On Monday of this week, former MP for Clydebank and Milngavie, Tony Worthington, sadly passed away. He was the MP for my hometown of Clydebank from 1987 until 2005.

“He will be remembered fondly by my constituents, and he remains an inspiration to me. I ask the Leader of the House to join me in commemorating Tony Worthington and offer our condolences to his wife Angela, son Robert, daughter Jennifer, and his three grandchildren.”

Top of page: Some of Tony Worthington’s colleagues on the Clydebank Asbestos Group.