Union leaders were among the first to praise the life of veteran socialist and campaigner Tony Benn after his death

Trades Union Congress general secretary Frances O'Grady described him as "a friend and an inspiration to me personally and to the whole labour movement.

"He believed history shows us that big progressive changes in society are driven not by political elites, but by the endeavours of ordinary working people.

"His unceasing willingness to march alongside us and the deep sincerity he showed to everyone he encountered in the labour movement means that he leaves many friends."

Unite general secretary Len McCluskey said Mr Benn had fought for his ideals "almost to the last breath of his life."

The union leader said: "He was a hero to me and to millions more not only because of what he advocated - social justice, democracy and peace - but because of the way he advocated it, with passion, decency and without malice against anyone."

Mr Benn was a lifelong member of Unite and its predecessor the T&G.

Mr McCluskey described his life as a rebuke to all those who are cynical about politics and politicians, and hoped today's political leaders would reflect on why he was held in such esteem by people from all walks of life.

PCS union leader Mark Serwotka spoke alongside Mr Benn many times, and said: "My fondest memories are of being in the Leftfield tent at Glastonbury - packed with young people - and seeing him electrify the place simply by walking on the stage."

Fire Brigades Union leader Matt Wrack said: "He represented a period when there was a great possibility of radical socialist change within the Labour Party. He stood on our side in the huge battles waged against working people by the Thatcher government."

He said there would be attempts to "sanitise" Mr Benn's memory, adding: "He should be remembered as a radical and a rebel."

Communication Workers Union general secretary Billy Hayes described Mr Benn as "a Labour colossus whose principles remained unshakeable."

He said Mr Benn "never stopped fighting for the rights of all workers."