I was sorry to read of the death of Lord Callaghan after many years of loyal service to Britain and the Labour Party (The Argus, March 28).

Many Labour colleagues paid tribute to Jim, who died peacefully at his secluded farm house in Ringmer on the eve of his 93rd birthday and just 11 days after the sad death of his beloved wife Audrey.

He was the longest-living former Prime Minister and the only politician to have held all four major offices of state - he was Prime Minister, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Home Secretary and Foreign Secretary.

James Callaghan became Prime Minister when Harold Wilson suddenly resigned and he took over running the country at a very difficult time.

He was well-respected in the Labour Party and by political opponents. Always a fair and generous politician, he could also be tough.

His death is very sad news not only for his family and friends but also the Labour Party.

-Steve Fuller, Hove