Family and politicians pay tribute as Labour stalwart Wally Burley dies aged 85

Mr Burley started out as a Labour membership recruiter in the 1957, before moving to the West Midlands in the 1960s to work as a Labour party organiser.

A long-time trade unionist, he went on to found the Labour Animal Welfare Society and the League Against Cruel Sports, and is credited with instigating legislation that led to the ban on fox hunting.

His wife of 40 years, Councillor Rose Burley, said: "He was a highly principled, family man, who will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He will be a great loss to the Labour movement."

Mr Burley, who is also survived by his 38-year-old daughter Maria, three grandchildren and a great-granddaughter, received an MBE in 2014 recognising his commitment to Labour party.

He was known throughout Labour circles as a party stalwart, having served as an activist for more than seven decades.

Labour's deputy leader Tom Watson – who says he was always known by Mr Burley as 'Young Tom from Wyre Forest CLP' – said: "He was selfless in his commitment to the Labour party and unstinting in his support for his Labour colleagues, long after he retired.

"The Wally I remember was formidable adversary as well as a loyal friend. He was a man of conviction, and those convictions ran deep. I will miss him."

Mr Burley's devotion to Labour was matched by his love of the Albion. He was able to make it to the club's home game with Everton this season, despite illness, and over the years became a familiar face at The Hawthorns.

Mr Watson added: "I have no doubt that when many of us in the party recall Wally we picture him wearing a West Brom top."

Wolverhampton South East MP Pat McFadden, said: "He was a lovely man who gave his life to animal welfare and the Labour party.

"He was incredibly passionate about both of those things.

"He will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him."

Mr Burley died on August 27, following illness.