KEIGHLEY'S MP has paid tribute to the political contribution made by former Northern Ireland deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, who died on Monday night.

Kris Hopkins, who is Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, acknowledged Mr McGuinness' shift from militancy to democratic participation, adding: “As a former soldier who served in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, Martin McGuinness and I were once on different sides.

“However, over recent decades, I've watched his journey – initially with scepticism then with admiration.

“Since being appointed as a Northern Ireland Office Minister, I've learned much more about the role he played in securing a lasting peace.

“His contribution to the political process in Northern Ireland will be greatly missed.”